New Mural Celebrates Southern California Wildlife at San Rafael Elementary in Pasadena

San Rafael Elementary School unveiled a new mural over 100 feet long (Photo – Wesley Reutimann)

Earlier this summer, San Rafael Elementary School unveiled a new mural over 100 feet long, celebrating the rich biodiversity of Southern California.

By News Desk

The vibrant artwork, installed along the K–5 campus, showcases native flora and fauna in vivid detail and serves as a colorful capstone to years of schoolyard greening efforts by the Pasadena Unified School District.

The mural project was commissioned with the goal of enriching the educational environment and encouraging students to engage with the natural world around them. It was made possible through funding from the Cygnet Foundation to local nonprofit ActiveSGV, along with the strong support of the school’s administration, especially Principal Sandra Rizzo, the PTA, and the creative talents of the art team at Mustard Beetle.

Organizers say the mural is not only a piece of public art but a learning tool and a source of daily inspiration for students. “I hope this beautiful work of art will inspire students to learn more about the biodiversity around them, and how greening one’s community can protect people, plants, and wildlife,” said Wesley Reutimann of ActiveSGV.

The public celebration this summer welcomed families, community members, and supporters to view the finished piece, marking a new chapter in the school’s continued efforts to promote environmental awareness and campus beautification.

Over 100 feet long mural at San Rafael Elementary School (Photo – Wesley Reutimann)

A learning tool and a source of daily inspiration for students (Photos – Wesley Reutimann)