Artist Michele Martinez has designed large scale glazed ceramic tile murals for the façade of the Helen Keller Park Pool House. One panel features a water pump over a sparkling pond, referencing Helen Keller’s personal story of revival. A second panel shows a diverse group of kids basking in the sun alongside a rippling pool. These murals are accompanied by quotes from Helen Keller, presented in English, Spanish and Braille.

The first phase of Michele Martinez’s glazed ceramic tile mural was installed at the park in June 2007. This portion of the mural incorporates tiles designed and created by local youth in a workshop with the artist and was recognized at the grand opening event on June 20, 2007.

About the Artist: Michele Martinez, who resides in southern California, received a MA from UCLA in Latin American Studies and also is a credited Bilingual/Crosscultural Academic Development Specialist. Martinez has completed public art commissions for the Metro Orange Line Sepulveda Station, Pasadena Armory for the Arts, and the City of El Potrero, Costa Rica. Her work is characterized by vivid imagery that often reflects historical aspects of the community in which she works. With her extensive teaching experience, Martinez often involves community members in the development and execution of her projects.