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County CollectionCompton LibraryArtist:
Dora De Larios
Date:
1973
Region:
Gateway/South LA
District:
Second
Location:
Compton Library
240 W. Compton Blvd. Compton, CA 90220 Department:
Public Library
 
Photos by: Patrick McElhenny | Click for larger photos
Project DescriptionDora De Larios designed this colorful ceramic tile mural in the early 1970s as the building was being constructed and she was able to integrate it into the Library’s overall plan. It is composed of two 8’ h x 20’ w sections on the Library’s exterior and interior. The composition which covers the full height and width of each wall features a central multi-colored band of intricately patterned tile situated within a bold design of red curved forms on a black background. The fluid design wraps around the outer wall into the main lobby, enlivening the space. In 2008 as part of the Compton Public Library’s complete renovation, Silverlake Conservation was hired to clean and repair De Larios’ mural. The mural was entirely cleaned and small cracks and scratches were corrected in order to reveal the mural’s original vibrant colors. See Dora De Larios, Lynwood Library About the ArtistDora De Larios has resided in the Los Angeles area all her life. Born in Los Angeles to Mexican parents, she spent her childhood living downtown near Temple Street. In 1957 she received a BFA from USC. The ethnic diversity of Los Angeles, as well as her extensive travels and study of world religions and ancient art at USC, led to the development of her pan-cultural style. De Larios’ public works include sculptures in Hawaii, New Jersey, Florida, Tahiti, Japan, and numerous cities in southern California. She has also created a ceramic dinner place setting for the White House. Since 1959 she has been featured in over 50 gallery shows and museum exhibitions including the Craft and Folk Art Museum in Los Angeles and the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C. She has taught ceramics at USC and UCLA. |
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