In a span of 10 feet high and about 82 inches around, the pillars at the Pearson Community Center in Las Vegas' Historic Westside are getting an artistic makeover, each a canvas for a story that stretches back to 1870. This public art project, documented in a collaboration between artist Mike Norice and Arecibo Films, is set to wrap up in May and will culminate in a public dedication on May 15. As stated by the Clark County Public Arts Office, attendees can expect light refreshments while they feast their eyes on the new Pearson Pillar Mural project.
The initiative isn't just about beautifying a bunch of concrete. It's about honoring the legacy of a historically Black neighborhood and the contributions its residents have made, both locally and to the wider Vegas area. Mike Norice, the South Los Angeles-based artist helming the visuals, made sure to involve the community. In a September 2024 Community Web workshop detailed by the Clark County Public Arts Office, residents and Pearson Center staff were encouraged "to share insights about their community". Those absent had the chance to contribute perspectives through a survey or by contacting Zachary Fried of Arecibo Films to tell personal tales.
These murals aren't spun from thin air; they are anchored in the fabric of Westside's past and present. Clark County Public Arts Office reports show extensive research was undertaken, including interviews conducted at the Harrison House—a landmark of African American history in Vegas—and sifting through archival gold at various local institutions. The voices and stories collected paint a timeline across 21 pillars. One pillar salutes John Howell, the first African American landowner in Clark County, while others spotlight significant historical milestones and figures like labor leader Hattie Canty and architect Paul Revere Williams.
The project looks both at the past and the future, highlighting the growing Hispanic/Latinx community in the area. Claytee D. White, the first director of the Oral History Research Center, helped guide the project. It traces the history of the Westside, from John Howell to the changing demographics, showcasing the neighborhood's cultural growth and resilience.
The countdown to the mural project's completion is on, and with May 15 rapidly approaching, the Clark County Public Arts Office stands ready to showcase this blend of art and community history. As a constant advocate for the county's artistic and cultural engagement, the office remains steadfast in its mission "to make art accessible to everyone" and "to enrich public spaces through innovative artistic expressions." More details about ongoing public art projects and ways to get involved can be found on the public arts office's website or through their social media channels.
