The Art Institute Of California — San Diego Unveils A Collaborative Student Mural In The Heart Of North Park's Art District

SAN DIEGO, CA – APRIL 28, 2009 - The Art Institute of California — San Diego announces it's unveiling of a collaborative student mural on Friday, May 8th, from 6:00-9:00pm at 3812 Ray Street.  Guests of the unveiling will get an opportunity to view the new addition to Ray Street's long history of art and culture. 

What began as a student final to develop a mural piece to incorporate the North Park Ray Street surroundings including the street, one way, and the "Ray Street Art and Culture" signs and also to integrate the talents of the owner of the donated wall, Master Photographer.Cr. David Troyan, has now come to life as a 60' x 30' hand painted masterpiece. The impressive size and imaginative design is a welcomed installation for all to marvel.

Grace Ann Piano, The Art Institute of California — San Diego Instructor and director of the mural, is a self taught local San Diego Muralist and seven year owner of Murals by Grace Ann.  Her installations range from hotels and nightclubs to coffee shops and hospitals.  She has been a member of the faculty at The Art Institute of California — San Diego for two years and has taught at other local colleges for six years collectively.   A proud creative leader, Grace Ann is very excited about sharing this inspiring collective student vision with the North Park and surrounding communities. 

Students involved in the project: Frankie Padilla, Maurice Simmons, Dustin Dettmar, Heather Geisler, Adam Bauer, Beena Devram, Marilyn Salameh, Gilberto Andres, Joanna Copsey, Hailey Hanson and Whitney Meyer.  

Music and Visuals: Faculty, students, and staff of The Art Institute of California — San Diego will be present.  Mural Director, Grace Ann Piano, and wall donator and Photographer David Troyan are available for interviews.  Events include The Mural Unveiling Ceremony, music by Raggle Taggle Le Jazz Hot, refreshments, and photographs of the installation are welcomed.

The Art Institute of California — San Diego is one of The Art Institutes (www.artinstitutes.edu), a system of over 40 education institutions throughout North America, providing an important source of design, media arts, fashion and culinary arts professionals.