City unveils “Welcome to San Bernardino” mural

City officials and staff were on hand for a ceremony yesterday unveiling a new mural entitled “Welcome to San Bernardino” by local artist Christian Mariscal at the Rudy C. Hernandez Community Center.

The inspiring mural is part of an ongoing effort to celebrate and enhance the cultural richness of San Bernardino through art. Each letter of the mural’s “San Bernardino” lettering features vibrant depictions of the community.

“Public art plays a vital role in fostering community pride and engagement,” said San Bernardino Parks, Recreation, and Community Services Director Lydie Gutfeld. “This mural is a testament to that vision.”

The mural’s creator, local artist Chrisitan Mariscal, is no stranger to public art projects. In recent years, Mariscal, a former graffiti artist, has created murals at parks and community centers across the City. He also has worked with the San Bernardino Public Works Department to creatively paint utility boxes and benches to successfully discourage graffiti at more than 50 locations throughout San Bernardino.

The mural is part of the San Bernardino Beautification and Cultural Infusion Project and was made possible by funding through a $100,000 Creative Corps Inland SoCal grant from the California Arts Council and the Inland Empire Community Foundation. The grant provided $40,000 to commission artists to create public murals at community centers and parks, $40,000 for cultural demonstrations and artist workshops promoting cultural diversity, education, and community engagement, and $20,000 for supplies and equipment.

An additional mural funded through this grant is currently being planned at the Encanto Community Center.