TASJA was honored by a gift from Louisa Cooper of 18 water color studies of the journey of St. Serra created for the tile panels in Serra Plaza. Ms. Cooper was a driving force in creating this artwork and did the research for the narratives on the studies and panels. These studies are stored through the courtesy of Mission San Juan Capistrano, You can see a digital version of them here:
The Alliance for San Juan Art advocates for an initiative to commission and place more Art in the Public Square in San Juan Capistrano that is visible and accessible by the public. Performing arts and temporary art should also be a part of Art in the Public Square. Such an initiative requires broad support and passionate advocates to make it a reality.
While large artworks are not unknown in San Juan Capistrano, they are mostly commissioned in the courtyards of business plazas and are not readily visible or accessible except to lessees and patrons of the plazas. “Binding Contract” aka the “Riders on the Hill” is an exception. It stands in blazing glory on a Del Obispo hillside, visible to all who pass by. The new mural on Capistrano Plaza, "Old San Juan" is another exception. Both are outstanding examples of 'public and visible' art.
Make a Difference
TASJA welcomes donations to commission artworks with historic themes for placement throughout downtown.