BRIGHT UNDERBELLY
The concrete of an elevated stretch of freeway is transformed into sky blue and branches and leaves inspired by the sycamores that once grew at this site. This 70,000 square foot mural enlivens the Interstate-5 overpass sheltering the largest farmer’s market in California. Lush leaves of summer turn to barren winter branches as you move clockwise through the space, framing delicately painted local wildlife. Encompassing the entire piece is the shimmering annual lunar cycle.
Atop scissor lifts outfitted with lounge chairs, we painted blue sky, glossy moons, and 25 species of birds and butterflies. Migrating geese are oriented North in the Spring and South in the Fall sections of the painting. Metallic golden bees and silver raindrops subtly catch the light. White-throated Swifts, that nest in the freeway structure, are painted in abundance throughout.
To celebrate the completed artwork we hosted a series of community events including a 400-person feast beneath Bright Underbelly on the first day of Spring. Our Spring Awakening dinner was prepared using fresh and local fare from the farmers market that morning.
