Commuters on San Diego's Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) can now add a visual treat to their travel itinerary thanks to the recent unveiling of two new murals at the La Mesa Grossmont Transit Center. The vibrant works, painted by local muralist Maxx Moses, are part of the ongoing “Color the Corridor” initiative to enhance the transit experience for riders along the Green and Orange Line Trolleys. According to a statement obtained by MTS, these installations strive to reflect the community's spirit and improve the ambiance for waiting commuters.
Accessibility and urban beautification have been riding hand in hand with the MTS's broader effort to transport and captivate. “These murals are a way to represent our community and improve our rider’s comfort while waiting for their next ride,” MTS Board Member and City of La Mesa Vice Mayor Patricia Dillard expressed in a statement by MTS. In these projects, Maxx Moses collaborated with MTS to convey a sense of liveliness and connection to the surrounding communities through his pieces, hoping they inspire passengers to engage economically and socially with the areas they commute through.
The first of Moses' new pieces, “Succession,” is a deep dive into themes of harmony and introspection, inspired by, as Moses described, “a simplicity in life within the quiet spaces between our hearts and minds when we take the time to listen.” This particular installation graces the bus side of Grossmont Transit Center, inviting travelers into a moment of inner calm amidst the hustle and bustle of daily commutes. On the flip side, at the train side, the mural titled “Float On” aims to visually narrate grace and serenity, drawing inspiration from the complexities life weaves together, according to Moses' revelation in an interview with MTS.
The MTS-Grossmont Station collaboration isn't the muralist's first rodeo with the transit system. As MTS notes, Moses has lent his art to several station beautification efforts, with Massachusetts Avenue, 62nd Street, Euclid Avenue, and 47th Street Trolley stations already showcasing his signature style. The public can also look forward to further MTS art initiatives with artists slated to create projects on the UC San Diego Blue Line at E Street Transit Center and Beyer Blvd. Trolley Station will be completed in December 2024 and 2026, respectively.
Glancing through the sd_irie Instagram profile offers a behind-the-scenes peek at the Grossmont Trolley murals. The page features a *LATE POST* that relays the collective joy of the team behind the mural project. With photo credits to Maxx Moses and a nod to Just Jon, the appreciation for the collaborative process shines through. Glimpses of the colorful artwork can be viewed on the sd_irie Instagram post.
