Artwork Detail

Compton Library Ceramic Mural

Artist: De Larios, Dora

Object Date: 1973

Medium: Glazed ceramic tile

Imperial Dims: Overall: 96 x 240 in.

Department(s): Public Library

Supervisorial District: 2

About the Artwork:

Dora De Larios designed this colorful ceramic tile mural in 1973 as the building was being constructed into the library’s overall plan. The artwork is featured at the library entrance and continues inside the lobby. Red and black glazed tiles outline a curved form in which a multi-colored band of tile is centered. The fluid shape wraps around the outer wall into the inside of the library.

About the Artist:

Dora De Larios has resided in the Los Angeles area all her life. Born in Los Angeles to Mexican parents, she spent her childhood living downtown near Temple Street. In 1957 she received a BFA from USC. The ethnic diversity of Los Angeles, as well as her extensive travels and study of world religions and ancient art at USC, led to the development of her pan-cultural style. De Larios’ public works include sculptures in Hawaii, New Jersey, Florida, Tahiti, Japan, and numerous cities in southern California. She has also created a ceramic dinner place setting for the White House. Since 1959 she has been featured in over 50 gallery shows and museum exhibitions including the Craft and Folk Art Museum in Los Angeles and the Smithsonian’s Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C. She has taught ceramics at USC and UCLA.