Wave Staff and Wire Reports
SOUTH LOS ANGELES — A mother mourning a child, a community activist, neighborhood elders and a young dancer are among the figures depicted in a mural unveiled Sept. 15 along the Harbor (110) Freeway.
The “South Central Strong” mural, by artist Moses Ball, depicts the struggles and strengths of South Los Angeles through nine portraits representing community figures and archetypes, according to the state Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
The portraits include a mother mourning a child lost to human trafficking, urban gardening activist Ron Finley, a young girl symbolizing the growth of South Los Angeles, figures representing fatherhood and guardianship over younger siblings, and elders serving as community guides.
The final figure is a dancer modeled after Elle Munda, a recent graduate of Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, representing young people who can thrive creatively, a Caltrans spokesperson said.
“My favorite part about being a muralist is creating images that beautify neighborhoods and serve as symbols of neighborhood pride, while inspiring all who view them,” Ball said. “I hope this mural raises awareness and inspires us to take care of our children and become closer family units.”
California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin, Caltrans Director Dina El-Tawansy and local officials and community members gathered to celebrate the mural’s installation.
“These murals are powerful reflections of the people, stories and resilience that have shaped South Los Angeles,” Omishakin said. “Governor Newsom’s Clean California program is about uplifting and investing in our communities, and projects like this show what’s possible when we come together to create welcoming, inspiring public spaces for all.”
The mural is located on the southwest corner of Colden Avenue and Flower Street, near Charles W. Barrett Elementary School and Watts Learning Center and within walking distance of Burton Technology Academy High School.
The $2.89 million beautification project also included sustainable landscaping, rock blanket paving and fencing improvements.
“South Central Strong” represents the power of murals to serve as a canvas for artists to convey community values, depict histories and foster community connection,” said Daniel Tarica, general manager of the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. “Through portraits of people in the community, the artwork celebrates and recognizes our local culture bearers and heroes.”
“South Central Strong” is the final mural in a set of three installed along the 110 Freeway as part of the Clean California initiative, a $1.2 billion multiyear cleanup and beautification effort, according to Caltrans said.
Caltrans said the spotlight on contemporary figures in “South Central Strong” is a fitting bookend to the historical journey of the 110 Freeway murals, from an homage to Black families traveling in Los Angeles during the Jim Crow era in “Safe Travels” by artist Bodeck Luna at 43rd and Flower Streets, to the musical heritage and civil rights movements captured in the mural “Jazz on the Field” by artist MisterAlek at 43rd Street and Grand Avenue.
The project is one of 320 Clean California projects statewide.
