covina: tapestry of time
downtown covina, ca
1800 sq/ft
Covina: A Tapestry of Time is a large-scale public mural that weaves together the rich layers of Covina’s history, from its Indigenous roots to its vibrant present. Inspired by vintage “Welcome to…” postcards, this piece honors the city’s transformation from a cove of vineyards into a citrus powerhouse and cultural destination. Anchored by the majestic San Gabriel Mountains, the mural features the historic Covina Bowl, the Red Car Trolley, vintage cars from Thunderfest, and the Covina Performing Arts Center. It pays homage to the Kizh Nation, Covina’s original inhabitants, and includes symbolic elements like a gifted Olmec head (celebrating the city’s sisterhood with Xalapa, Mexico), Monarch butterflies, and a lively marching band. Each element was carefully chosen to celebrate the legacy, diversity, and evolving identity of Covina, layer by layer, era by era.
Honoring Ancestral Roots
In the early stages of this project, we made it a priority to acknowledge and honor the original stewards of the land, the Kizh Nation. Before beginning the mural design, we reached out to representatives from the Kizh community to ensure that their presence and contributions were respectfully represented. Their guidance helped shape the mural’s foundation, particularly the visual storytelling that nods to Covina’s early landscape and Indigenous history. This collaboration ensured that the mural did not simply look back at Covina’s past, but also uplifted the deeper story of the land itself. Through this process, we sought to create a space where history, culture, and community memory could coexist with integrity and care.
A Stage for Community Expression
The mural concludes with a tribute to the Covina Performing Arts Center, a landmark that represents the city’s ongoing commitment to creativity, storytelling, and shared experience. More than just a building, the PAC serves as a cultural anchor in the heart of Covina, offering a space where the community gathers to celebrate the arts. Its inclusion in the mural was intentional, not only to mark a physical location but to spotlight the spirit of performance and collaboration that defines the city. By placing the theater at the mural’s end, we honor the idea that Covina’s story is still unfolding, with each generation taking the stage to add their own voice.
The Heart Behind the Wall
This video offers a deeper look into the meaning behind Covina: A Tapestry of Time. Through reflections on the city’s heritage, landmarks, and cultural touchstones, it tells the story of what makes Covina feel like home.