Expansive Mural Celebrates CSUN’s Riches in Sciences and Humanities

NORTHRIDGE – Months in the making, a major artistic mural celebrating the intellectual and artistic richness of California State University, Northridge, has been installed within University Student Union (USU) Theater adjacent to the Plaza del Sol Performance Hall. The mural features layers of rich colors, textures and antique illustrations, produced first in paint and then printed digitally.

CSUN Art Department Illustration students Angela Bernal and Keiko Tanabe designed and produced the work, with supervision by faculty advisor Professor Laurel Long.

“We wanted to use images related to the intellectual exploration of science and humanities such as Da Vinci’s invention drawings and Beethoven’s musical notation, and combine those with abstract color fields that represent the natural elements of earth, water and fire.” Said Angela. Adds Keiko, “We wanted to visually represent the different areas of university study. “

“We have such talented students, I would like to see their work all over the campus,” said Leslie Gillman Room Reservations and Academic Facilities Coordinator after the permanent installation on Jan. 26. Prompted by a request from the faculty for a more aesthetic teaching environment, she approached Professor Dave Moon, Acting Dean of the College of Arts, Media and Communication about having CSUN art students create a mural for the USU Theater. Professor Moon brought the project to the attention of Professor Long’s illustration class.

“I am so proud of our illustration students,” said Long, noting the intense design and painting work of students Bernal and Tanabe. “What they created is beautiful and inspiring. It is a celebration of the best of the University in thought, philosophy and the academic disciplines.”

Working in groups, the students presented seven different mural design proposals to the USU Facilities and Commercial Services Committee. The Committee chose Angela and Keiko’s design.

“It looks fantastic.” said Jason Wang, USU Associate Director for Operations and Services, whose sentiments best sum up the project.

The mural may be viewed at the University Student Union Theater, room 2207.