Library Art Fix

In 2002 Pat Welsh, our talented local author-artist-gardener originated the vision of a 92-foot long multi media mural on the wall fronting the library. Pat worked with graphic artist Betsy K. Schulz to bring the concept to life. Funds were raised from the Del Mar Garden Club, the Del Mar Library and various private donors with fiscal sponsorship from Del Mar Foundation. The design, incorporating a mix of found objects, handcrafted sculpted tiles, bricks, was realized with volunteer help from community. It looked great! Years passed. By 2014 the mural and the wall itself needed repair. Pat and Betsy, who founded A Design Garden, and has created many art installations over the years, were back to work. They restored the mural , and drainage issues were addressed to prevent future water damage to the wall, again with fiscal help from DMF.

Next year, 2022 is the decorative mural wall’s 20-year anniversary. Just recently, In anticipation of celebrating the decorative wall’s decades, the Friends of the Del Mar Library asked Betsy to check on the mural and correct any flaws. Still in touch with Pat, now in her 90s, Betsy recently completed an intense week of cleaning, replacing missing items, and sealing the entire wall with the help of assistants Iris Salazar and Betsy Schulz. Take another look at this creative work in our town. It looks great, just as sparkly as it did in 2002, now ready for its 20th.