Jordan Downs Campus Murals
2024 SKY AT JORDAN DOWNS MURAL
The mural depicts the history of Watts, centered around a rose with a Unity Fist rising from it, bordered by vibrant orange and yellow. Radiating from the rose are scenes of shared struggles and unity: the train boxcar community, Mexican traqueros and Black porters by the Sunset Express, and Black and Latino farmworker families, symbolizing common hardships. The theme is “unity through struggle.” Another ray features Rancho La Tajuata and the Tongva village, including Toypurina, a medicine woman who led a revolt. The Unity Fist extends around the building, linking past to present. On the right, a young girl studies, followed by Malcolm X pointing to his mind, Black and brown hands united before the LA skyline, children climbing books labeled history, science, and math, and a space shuttle symbolizing limitless potential for Black and brown communities.
2024 OAK TERRACE AT JORDAN DOWNS MURAL
This mural highlights the natural abundance of Watts and Los Angeles, often overlooked in urban life. At its center is a large oak tree, with a Tongva woman holding a woven basket in its canopy, symbolizing indigenous roots. At the base, a Black and brown girl smile toward the future. Native birds—a heron, kestrel falcon, and scrub jay—frame the left side, with “Watts” written in ornate script above, celebrating community pride. Below, native plants like cactus, sage, and cotton willow branches anchor the design. The background features Watts Towers and LA City Hall, blending urban and natural elements. On the right, a map of the LA basin, including watersheds, Tongva village sites, and a star marking Watts, educates viewers. A stylized dolphin, elderberries, acorns, and wave patterns further emphasize native culture and ecology. The mural connects the city to its natural heritage, educating locals about native flora, fauna, and indigenous history.