Revitalizing Spaces through Art : Kelvin Mural Project in Lemon Grove

INTRODUCTION

Adding public art to a real estate development project provides a benefit to the community, the developer and the residents. If you’ve ever wondered what goes into planning and executing a large scale mural or public art piece, this case study is for you.

AFMKTG, in collaboration with Citymark embarked on an ambitious project to create a landmark mural for Kelvin, Lemon Grove’s newest multifamily real estate development. The Kelvin Mural Project was not just about adding color to a building; it was a strategic project to showcase the essence of Kelvin's brand, inspired by the kelvin temperature scale, and to contribute significantly to a public art initiative in partnership with the city of Lemon Grove.

Kelvin Mural — *Photography by* *Haley Hill*

Inspiration and Branding

The Kelvin brand is part of Citymark's innovative series of developments named after units of temperature measurement, including Fahrenheit and Celsius, culminating in Kelvin. This project draws its distinct inspiration from the temperature of light - Kelvin, embodying the spectrum of light as represented on the kelvin temperature scale. Through vibrant colors and innovative lighting schemes, the brand aims to encapsulate the essence of light's temperature.

AFMKTG, having created the brand identity for the Kelvin project, seamlessly designed a mural around the color palette we established. This ensured a perfect alignment with Kelvin's brand identity, enabling the chosen colors to harmonize with the building's exterior and reflect the project's aesthetic goals and temperature-related narrative. This strategic integration of color and design underscores the brand's dedication to creativity, innovation, and consistency, showcasing AFMKTG's deep understanding and original creation of the project's visual identity.

Creative Brief Development

AFMKTG designed an extensive creative brief that served as the blueprint to executing this mural. The brief highlighted the project's vision, embodying bold, eye-catching, and vibrant aesthetics with a modern, urban, and edgy feel that would compliment the architectural design by Studio E Architects. The selected color palette was a testament to the kelvin color temperature scale, featuring warm reds, oranges, yellows, cool blues, and neutral grays.

Selection and Collaboration Process

The selection of the muralist was a comprehensive process. AFMKTG interviewed dozens of local artists, conducted negotiations, and managed the creative projects reflecting the project's significance and the partnership with Lemon Grove to enhance public art. Ultimately, Betty Larkin was chosen as the muralist for this project, thanks to her distinctive style and ability to translate the Kelvin brand's vision into art. Her past works, which align closely with the desired aesthetic of dynamic, appealing, and layered art, made her the perfect fit for the project.

Project Execution

From the initial concept to the final strokes of paint, AFMKTG spearheaded the project in collaboration with CityMark’s onsite project management and superintendent team. The mural, approximately 31 feet tall and 19 feet wide, is a masterpiece of public art visible from the 94-freeway off-ramp. Its strategic location and striking visuals have significantly increased the visibility of the Kelvin building, transforming it into a landmark.

Result and Impact

The Kelvin Mural Project has achieved remarkable success, far beyond beautifying a building's exterior. It has become a symbol of community engagement, creativity, and the transformative power of public art. The mural's vibrant colors and dynamic design not only embody the Kelvin brand's identity but also enhance the architectural appeal of this multifamily real estate development. It serves as a beacon, attracting residents and visitors alike, and contributing to the vibrancy of Lemon Grove.

Conclusion

AFMKTG's role in the Kelvin Mural Project demonstrates the agency's expertise in bringing creative visions to life and its commitment to enhancing public spaces through art. By meticulously handling every aspect of the project—from conceptualization and creative briefing to artist selection, city approvals, and execution—AFMKTG ensured a seamless and effortless experience for Citymark. The agency's expertise in integrating branding, design, and community values culminated in a mural that harmoniously blends with the Kelvin building's exterior, interior design, and brand colors. The Kelvin Mural stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and strategic planning in creating impactful public art.