In this issue, we enthusiastically write about the beauty and function of mural art, particularly focusing on the art created by our own local muralist, Carla Roque. Recognized by the Orange County Register as one of the most influential people of 2023, Carla’s work can be seen adorning both inside and outside walls throughout Orange County, including community organizations, local businesses, and many schools.   ​

Carla Roque, a professional artist since her early 20s, began her career as a caricature artist at Knott’s Berry Farm. A few years later, while earning her Master’s degree in illustration from Cal State Fullerton, she was commissioned by Orangewood Children’s Home to create her largest mural commission. Having worked with the organization previously as a group counselor, she understood the mission.

“It was a timeline of sorts representing the different stages of a young person’s life,” said Carla. “My time with the kids brought a sense of understanding to the work.”

Carla went on to paint several murals for the cottages on the property in order to beautify the children’s environment. ​Carla now has over 20 years of experience as a professional artist, with mural creation accounting for most of her time. She is finishing a two-year contract with the Anaheim Elementary School District, where she painted two murals for each of the district’s 23 schools. Her work can also be seen at schools and parks across Fullerton and La Habra. She has created mobile murals, including a handful for the Muckenthaler Cultural Center and one especially popular mural of Kobe Bryant, which now resides at a local business in the City of Orange and was featured in a documentary on LA/OC mural artists who commemorated his passing.

Carla is a highly respected muralist and has earned the freedom to express her unique artistic style. She describes her work as ‘happy and hopeful,‘ using vibrant flowers, colors, sunshine, and rainbows. Her murals, often seen by children, aim to send a positive and uplifting message and so make people feel good. ​

Murals are one of the oldest art forms – think cave paintings, Mayan murals, and, in later history, Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Early mural art was painted inside, but in the early 20th century, murals moved outdoors as well. In the early 1900s, government entities adopted murals to beautify the community and convey positive messages about programs and policies. With their extensive size, murals could tell complex narratives that could be accessible to everyone.

While stories are still important in mural creation, part of today’s purpose and function of mural art calls for participation from others, and Carla is often joined by adult and youth volunteers to complete her projects. Organizations such as Love Fullerton and Love Anaheim and students from her school projects contribute their artistic talents.

“When I know the community will be participating in the mural’s creation, I plan ahead by working that into the design,” said Carla. “Having others take ownership in the project is a positive all around.”  ​

• Carla’s work can be found at the following nearby locations:
• Gilbert Community Center,
• Raymond School, Polly’s Pies (murals, menu, and package designs),
• the Muckenthaler Cultural Center, and
• any Anaheim Elementary School.  ​

On a side note, Carla is currently working on an illustrated biography of Leonard Knight, a muralist who created what is known as a “visual environment” on a mountain near the Salton Sea. Carla met Knight more than 20 years ago, and her work continues to be inspired by him. Her book “Salvation Mountain” will be published in November in honor of the 10th anniversary of his passing.

Over the Moon Gallery is an online art gallery featuring works from a variety of artists. Visit their website at http://www.overthemoongallery.com.