History of the Westside Community Mural in Denver

 I am constantly surprised and in awe of all the art that is around Denver, especially the murals that I encounter!  One fine example is the large mural on the south side of Eight Avenue between Kalamath and Santa Fe.  Marc Anthony Martinez spray painted this "History of the Westside Community" in 2002.

The one scene depicts a Mexican workering in the sugar cane fields. 
The man with the mustache is Rodolfo "Gorky" Gonzales, an activist who promoted justice and equality for the Mexican- American.

Above and to the left of the farmer is the calavera (skeleton) holding a book by Jose Posada.  Posada who was instrumental in the creation of the calavera catrina shown on the left with the fancy hat on.  (for more on Posada, see post dated July 21, 2010).

In the lower left corner is a melted clock, inspired by Salvador Dali showing how time flies.  Above the clock is a mother hanging up her childrens's sports school uniforms from West High School.  The pink structure is the beautiful 1920's St. Cajetan Catholic Church which is now part of the Auroria Campus.  The big three-faced sun is symbolic of the Mestizo, one of  Indian and Spanish blood.

The red building with the awning is the Buckhorn Exchange Steakhouse, Denver oldest restaurant at 10th and Osage dating back to 1893.  

Above the window is the Buyers Denver Library built in 1918 on Santa fe Drive.  I have always loved this building.

The big American flag has different colored hands on it portraying the many cultures.  The yellow building is Tacos de Mexico which has some of the best breakfast burritos.  Next door is El Noa Noa, another Mexican restaurant on Santa Fe.

The Santa Fe Theater.

A panoramic view of Denver's skyline with the large white building (republic Plaza), the Denver Art Musuem and the blue building knick-named the "Cash Register" building.

If you look closely, you will see a Calavera watering skiing!

It's a wonderful mural.  Check it out.