Experience the New Murals Transforming Indian River County
Indian River County’s creative landscape just got a major boost thanks to this year’s Mural Festival. Local walls and alleyways are now alive with color, storytelling, and the bold vision of talented artists who transformed ordinary spaces into extraordinary works of public art.
Muta Santiago (Muta Vision)
Muta Santiago brought a breathtaking mural to the back corner wall of the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce building, creating a piece that beautifully captures the identity of Vero Beach. Muta shared that his design “captures the serene balance between Vero Beach’s native beauty and its evolving creative spirit.” The mural features a Great Egret—“a timeless emblem of Florida’s coastal resilience”—standing among orange blossoms, bird-of-paradise blooms, and tropical palms. Flowing geometric gradients echo the rhythm of ocean tides, while Gulf Fritillary butterflies glide through the piece as symbols of transformation and endurance. Muta explained that his intention was to create a space that feels alive with movement and light—“a visual reflection of Vero Beach’s identity where locals and visitors alike can pause, reflect, and feel connected to the area’s living ecosystem and artistic soul.”
Morgan Summers
Morgan Summers brought The Guardians to the CCR Wall, weaving together childhood inspiration, comfort imagery, and the spirit of community. Summers shared, “‘The Guardians’ was inspired by a piece of artwork in their current location, as well as icons and symbols of comfort from my own childhood. I can’t wait to see it in the context of their facility once in use next year! Couldn’t have asked for a better source of inspiration and location for this final artwork.” The result is a heartwarming, meaningful mural that will resonate even more deeply once its permanent home is complete.
Claudio Picasso
Behind Curfew, Claudio Picasso transformed an alley wall with An Uneasy Sleep, a richly introspective mural that blends color and dreamlike symbolism. Picasso described it as “about the tension we often carry in our subconscious, and how our inner world can reflect both peace and unrest.” His piece brings depth and contemplation to a space most people once passed by without noticing.
Mr. Mwanel Pierre-Louis
Mwanel Pierre-Louis contributed a powerful portrait rooted in resilience and hope. Reflecting on his piece, he shared, “I wanted to express how times are transformative and challenging but we’re still here, planting and grounding our roots to be able to see the new day.” His work celebrates strength, renewal, and perseverance.
Christian Stanley
Christian Stanley added dynamic energy to the festival with his striking mural of two zebras mid-leap. He explained, “For this one, I went with two zebras mid-leap and had fun adding drips, splatters of paint, and using bubble wrap to create texture in the background.” The lively textures and movement make the piece instantly engaging.
Nathaniel Rios
Nathan Rios also known as 2nes_unoe, created Guidance, a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather. He shared, “A mural dedicated to my grandfather and the importance of red cardinals being a guide in my life.” The bold imagery and emotional symbolism make it one of the festival’s most personal works.
Joshua Hall & Diana Paz
Joshua Hall & Diana Paz collaborated on Where the Tropics Begin, a bright, citrus-themed, beach-inspired mural that captures the playful, sunny spirit of Indian River County. Their work feels like stepping straight into the warmth of the tropics.
James Newman & Daniel Mastera
James Newman added a serene ocean scene that reflects the peaceful charm of the coastline, while Daniel Mastera contributed a fundraiser-themed mural celebrating generosity and community connection.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for something colorful to explore, these murals are the perfect reason to stroll through Indian River County. Each wall tells its own story, invites interaction, and celebrates the creativity of the artists who made it all possible.
The festival’s murals are more than paint on walls—they’re a living gallery that brings the community together, encourages conversation, and adds a splash of inspiration to everyday life. Next time you’re in Indian River County, take a walk, snap a few photos, and see firsthand how these artists have reimagined our streets.
