Commission approves $4,500 to extend Kumeyaay creation mural at Escondido Public Library

The Public Art Commission approved a $4,500 funding request to expand 'A Kumeyaay Creation Story,' the mural being installed on the corner of Kalmia and East 2nd on the Escondido Public Library building.

Artist Tim Topalov described the proposed expansion as an extension of the night sky and the addition of the 'Six Sisters' constellation. City staff said the mural was a gift from the Escondido Community Foundation and that no initial public art funds were used; the $4,500 request is for a limited expansion that would pay for a second worker (five days of assistance), primer, sealant and materials.

Topalov said he first budgeted $3,500 in the packet but, after inspecting the site from a lift and for safety reasons, decided he should have an assistant and therefore increased the request by $1,000. He said the construction team has held roof tiles for that section pending approval. Staff reported the community foundation had already provided $5,000 toward hiring an assistant.

A commissioner moved and another seconded approval of the $4,500 community request; the chair opened the vote and announced approval 6‑0.