PLEASE DO NOT DONATE TO THIS PETITION OR CHANGE.ORG.  The donations DO NOT go towards the restoration of the mural. 

A 550-foot-long mural by Daniel Alonzo extends from 3rd to 5th Street along Ocean Park Boulevard in Santa Monica. Known as "Whale of a Mural," this vibrant artwork depicts Pacific gray whales and pilot whales, accompanied by bottlenose dolphins, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and common dolphins, all swimming together in harmony.

Located at Ocean Park Boulevard and 4th Street, the mural has democratized art by bringing it into public space, standing as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and communal spirit. It is a cherished feature of Santa Monica, a testament to the city’s rich artistic history and its community’s passion for environmental conservation. Its depiction of marine life native to Santa Monica Bay has inspired countless residents and visitors alike.

Unfortunately, over the years, this iconic mural has suffered from neglect and exposure to the elements, leaving it in dire need of restoration. Its gradual deterioration has been heartbreaking for the community. Beyond its artistic beauty, it serves as a continuous reminder of our responsibility to protect both our natural environment and the art that celebrates it.

To ensure future generations can experience its beauty, we urge the City of Santa Monica to allocate funding and resources to restore Whale of a Mural to its original glory.

Restoration efforts would require collaboration with the original artist, Daniel Alonzo, his assistants, conservation experts, and the City Council to ensure an accurate, respectful, and long-lasting refurbishment of this treasured landmark.

Recognizing the mural as a historical landmark would further highlight its significance and facilitate future maintenance, ensuring it receives the care it deserves. Such designation would protect the mural from potential threats, including urban development or changes in city ordinances that could otherwise jeopardize its existence.

Help us breathe new life into Whale of a Mural and secure its place in Santa Monica’s cultural landscape for years to come. Sign the petition calling on the City of Santa Monica to act now to preserve this irreplaceable masterpiece for the benefit of our community, the greater Los Angeles area, and the many who visit our beautiful city.

Let’s unite to honor our past, celebrate this artist’s achievements, and protect our environment. Your signature will make a difference.

 

 

 

 

Santa Monica has always been a hub for artistic expression, however, our dynamic public art pieces often face threats of removal or degradation. This particular mural, unlike any other, captures the essence of our city’s, depicting elements from the rich tapestry of Santa Monica’s ocean. It has become a beloved landmark in its neighborhood, acting as a backdrop to a main road, and attracting visitors from near and far.

Designating this mural as a protected city landmark will ensure its preservation for future generations, allow it to continue to inspire artistic endeavors, and maintain Santa Monica's reputation as a city that cherishes and preserves its cultural assets. Landmark status would ensure maintenance resources and protection against any alterations that could compromise its integrity.

By recognizing and preserving this mural, the city of Santa Monica would be making a strong statement about the value it places on public art and cultural heritage. This initiative will safeguard a piece of our community’s heart and acknowledge the efforts put in by artists who strive to enhance urban spaces with creativity and passion.

Please don't donate to this petition - it does not go to the fund to help restore but to Change.org. Thank you.

 

 

Support this petition to ensure that our community continues to flourish with vibrant, protected art spaces. Sign now to make the Santa Monica mural an official city landmark.