At last month's Pop Up Market - our resident artist, Ali Rybczyk painted a large scale Laguna Beach abstract cityscape mural on our brick south facing wall. It's pretty rad. It's actually like really rad. We asked her a few questions regarding her inspiration and process. Enjoy!

WHAT INSPIRED THE MURAL?

It was inspired by the welcoming of a Summer spent in Laguna Beach. May it draw locals and tourists to come visit and take a photo with the wall— cross it off their summer bucket list!

WHAT ARE SOME OF THE PLACES AND ELEMENTS HIGHLIGHTED IN THE PIECE?

The Laguna Beach Trolley! To me, the trolley is an iconic and universal symbol of Laguna Beach- The trolley is filled with all walks of life- tourists, families, workers and young beach goers- it captures a sensation of summer— wet sandy feet, sun kissed smiles and smells of Hawaiian tropic. For me, it felt important to pronounce that in the piece, as it stands out amongst the abstract vibrancy of colors and beach-ly shapes

HOW IS THE PROCESS DIFFERENT WHEN CREATING A MURAL?

The process of each new piece carries an equal sense of refreshed newness and a sense of familiarity. I think its the unfolding process that feels the same for me- as in, I know it will always come alive through its layers and time spent. Trusting in the layers, I feel as if I am gaining a new perspective, as I solve to add more coats on top of whats been done— that is the kind of process that I can relate to all my art endeavors. It is easier to approach a larger piece (for me!) I would like to continue to go big- more color, more time making. Its so healing for me- why not spend MORE time making something that causes such joy!?