Our mission is to create Long Beach's 2nd most popular attraction.
The goal for this project is simple; give the Long Beach "Recreational Mural" landmark its due and continue to illustrate the reemergence of Downtown Long Beach as a premier destination.
We came up with a crazy idea to “animate and illuminate” the mural and its characters through the magic of projection mapping. In effect, making the mural sparkle from a distance and drawing both locals and visitors Downtown. It will become Long Beach's 2nd most popular attraction and revitalize downtown.
Here's an example our partner's, Go2Productions, illuminating effect.
Who We Are
Founded in 2018, Loiter Galleries is dedicated to supporting underserved local artists by offering affordable gallery space, promotion, and essential support. The organization also revitalizes vacant storefronts in Long Beach with art, enhancing neighborhoods and businesses alike.
What the "Recreational Mural" project is
Our concept takes the challenge to make our mark with a bold idea.
Through a process called “projection mapping” we will bring the characters to life while Illuminating the
mural. This process has won several installation awards and is used by blue chip companies such as 2010
Olympics, Southwest Airlines and Target.
Why we do what we do
By providing exhibition opportunities, marketing assistance, and resources to artists, while simultaneously attracting property owners and tenants through vibrant, art-filled spaces, Loiter Galleries fosters community engagement and fill vancat spaces with art. Our efforts also introduce art lovers to emerging and unconventional artists, often making their first gallery experience an adventurous one.
How we accomplished it
Out team features Go2productions for animation and pre and post production, Pier Communications for PR and promotion. Lastly, of course, the Loiter Galleries team for ideation, fundraising, and management.
The story
What is the Recreational Mural?
Located at the Harvey Milk Park and Equity Plaza sits a 38 ft tall mural. The Long Beach Recreation Mural was designed by local artist Henry A. Nord to depict the many forms of recreation offered in Long Beach including croquet, picnicking, sailing and fishing. This is the largest ceramic mural in Long Beach. It remains open to the public and can be located at 185 E. Third Street, Long Beach, CA 90802.
Artists
Who worked on the Recreation Mural?
Originally painted by Henry A Nord, artists Staten McDonald Wright and Albert H. King transformed his work into the mosaic. With the funding from the Workers Progress Association, over 60 artists help build the mural to what it is today.
Medium
What is the Recreational Mural made out of?
The original mural was a painting. Now, measuring at 38 feet high and 33 feet wide, the work was created into a glazed ceramic mosaic. 62 thousand tiles were made to create the mural depicting recreational activities in Long Beach.
The process
Behind the Scenes, making the mural
01
Animation and Design
The process of animation and design in light projection mapping begins with creating detailed digital animations and graphics tailored to fit the specific dimensions and contours of the target surface. Designers use specialized software to map out the surface, accounting for its shape and any irregularities to ensure the projected images align perfectly. Once the animation is complete, it is projected onto the surface, transforming it into a dynamic, interactive display. This alignment creates the illusion that the surface itself is moving or changing, allowing for a blend of artistic expression and spatial design that enhances the visual impact and engagement of the projection.
02
Production
The production of projection light mapping begins with analyzing the projection surface and creating a digital map of its dimensions and features. High-quality projectors, often equipped with advanced features like high brightness and precision alignment, are set up and calibrated to fit the mapped surface. Additionally, equipment such as media servers, which manage and synchronize the content, and sometimes real-time tracking systems, are used to ensure accurate and dynamic projection. The final step involves executing the projection and making real-time adjustments to ensure the digital content aligns perfectly with the physical surface, creating a cohesive and immersive visual experience.
03
Bringing the Long Beach Community Together
Light projection mapping fosters community cohesion by transforming public spaces into vibrant, interactive canvases that engage and inspire residents. These dynamic displays, often showcased during local events or festivals, attract diverse audiences and create shared experiences that bridge social gaps. By involving local artists and designers in the creation process, projection mapping also provides a platform for community talent and creativity. The resulting immersive and visually stunning presentations encourage social interaction, celebrate local culture, and enhance public spaces, ultimately strengthening community ties and promoting a sense of collective pride and involvement.
Details
Address: 185 East 3rd Street Long Beach, CA
GPS Coordinates: 33.770524, -118.191084
Location: Long Beach Municipal Auditorium. (1938) Long Beach City Plaza Parking (1982). Harvey Milk Promenade Park (2013 - Present)
Size: 33 ft high, 38 ft wide
Medium: Ceramic Tiles
Artists: Henry Allen Nord, Albert Henry King, Stanton Macdonald-Wright, Louisa Etcheverry, Employees of the The Works Progress Administration (WPA)
FAQ
What is the Recreation Mural made out of? The mural was originally a painting by Henery A Nord, then was transformed into a ceramic tile mosaic.
How will Loiter Galleries to enhance the mural? Loiter Galleries will elevate the recreational mural into a dazzling spectacle, bringing vibrant animations and dynamic light projections to every brushstroke. Experience the mural like never before as it bursts to life with captivating visual effects that transform our community space into a glowing canvas of creativity!
Where is the mural? Downtown Long Beach, California. 185 E 3rd St, Long Beach, CA 90802
Why is this mural important? The recreational mural in Long Beach is a vital cultural landmark, celebrating the city's artistic spirit and fostering community pride through vibrant public art. It serves as a visual centerpiece that enhances local spaces, inspires creativity, and represents the history of Long Beach.
Where can I learn about the history of the mural? Read our blogs and follow our Instagram for more.
Who made the mural? Henry Allen Nord, Albert Henry King, Stanton Macdonald-Wright, Louisa Etcheverry, Employees of the The Works Progress Administration (WPA)