Familia Tepeyac

Artist: David Ocelotl Garcia Title: "Familia Tepeyac"

In this mural I interpret Familia Tepeyac through movement, composition, color and symbols. The composition of this mural is of a “family tree” in the form of a rose, surrounded by a family of four. The heart beneath the rose is a reference to La Virgen de Guadalupe. At the base is Malinali, the Aztec deity of medicine.

I wanted to express the importance of teaching and learning within a healthy family. Each parent holds a pot, one with water and the other fire, both in the form of liquid as a metaphor for balance and duality. Through this action the parents teach their kids how to water the roots of the “tree”.

The left side of the mural honors Male Energy. Here the “tree” points south to the direction of Huitzilophochtli (Hummingbird) for which I painted the tips of the Maguey Plant. Also used are the forms of Centli (Corn) for growth, and Cuahtli (Eagle) for the sky.

The right side honors Female Energy. This side points north in the direction of Mictlampa (Place of the Dead) and is symbolized by mushrooms. Additionally, Coat (Serpent) represents our Earth along with Corn.

Behind the family is a large red rose as a symbol of faith, love and strength, and a field of roses representing the many families of our community. At the top of the mural is the allpowerful Tonatiuh (Sun) shining down upon our people and mountains of the West.

We are grateful to Mr. Garcia for his work and invite our community to come and see the new mural that graces the front of our clinic at 5075 Lincoln Street.