Artist Luis Ituarte competed for and received a grant to create a mural in partnership with a local business owner and others in the community. The Neighborhood Enhancement Mural Program (NEMP) is a creation of the City's Cultural Affairs Division, aimed at enhancing urban neighborhoods with eye-catching murals. Mr. Ituarte will unveil his mural at a ceremony scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2010 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. City Council Member Chris Holden will lead the ceremony at the Pasadena Fish Market and Restaurant at 181 E. Orange Grove Boulevard, between Marengo Street and Fair Oaks Avenue.

Luis collaborated with Clifford Douglas, owner of the Pasadena Fish Market & Restaurant, and was given permission to utilize the west wall of the building. As a result of a community meeting in August 2009, attendees chose "Cool Succulents" out of five abstract designs. Luis created an 880 sq. ft. mural on 18 oz. weather-resistant canvas with Ultra Violet (UVR). Alternate contact: Dr. Gerda Govine Ituarte (626) 484-0740.

For more information about the project, read The Pasadena Journal, Issue XXI, Number 9.