The San Jacinto Valley’s first community-led public mural was intentionally designed to be more than a commissioned piece of art. While a traditional commissioned mural is often created by a single artist, this project invited residents to help shape the vision, contribute their stories, pride, and love for Hemet, and literally put their brushstrokes on the mural through the Community Paint Day and Plein Air Day. Its title of “Your Horizon is Here” references the City of Hemet’s official community brand and slogan that was adopted earlier this year.
The ribbon cutting and unveiling of the mural on July 15 was the culmination of this community journey. From the initial brainstorming sessions and online surveys to the organized paint days and the final artwork, residents have been involved every step of the way. The celebration honored that collective effort and allowed the community to experience the completed mural together for the first time.
The event, as well as the work itself, highlighted a diverse slice of community involvement. Healthy Valley Foundation served as the backbone organization and project coordinator, the City of Hemet provided leadership and support for public art and downtown revitalization, Altura Credit Union was a premier sponsor and storytelling partner, Riverside Arts Council provided technical assistance and public art expertise, lead muralist Rosy Cortez served as mentor and artistic genius, members of the Hemet Valley Art Association continually supported artist engagement and community connections, Elite Customs Construction donated a portion of needed wall repairs, and dozens of residents, artists, volunteers, and local businesses helped bring the mural to life.
There were more than 100 guests on hand for the reveal at the corner of Carmalita St. and Florida Ave.at 5:30 p.m. Emcee Jennifer Cortes, Communications and Events Coordinator for the City of Hemet, was joined by Mayor Linda Krupa, Altura Credit Union President and CEO Jennifer Binkley, and Healthy Valley Foundation President and CEO Jennifer O’Farrell. They shared how this effort took public, private, nonprofit, education, community and artists to complete. Included were positive comments on the importance of art and revitalizing communities, and art as a vehicle for well-being.
“For Healthy Valley Foundation art is not a luxury to us—it is a vital condition for connection and community well-being through neighborhood pride, revitalizing areas and increasing walkability,” O’Farrell said. “Our goal is to fund and coordinate the partners and secure the resources to make it possible.”
She said the Foundation’s work is centered on integrated collaboration—uniting government, institutions, business, nonprofits, residents, and youth—around a shared vision, or “North Star” as she calls it.
“We are dedicated to advancing equitable health, well-being, and resiliency of people in the San Jacinto Valley,” O’Farrell said.
She said the mural project also serves as a workforce and creative economy initiative as part of the Foundation’s Upward Social Mobility pillar.
“Through an open call for artists, we received the largest response we have seen for a local public art opportunity, resulting in the selection of 11 Emerging Artists ranging from youth to experienced creatives,” O’Farrell said. “These artists worked alongside lead muralist Rosy Cortez, brought to us by Riverside Arts Council, who provided the emerging artists mentorship, hands-on training, and real-world experience in public art, helping to cultivate the next generation of local muralists and creative leaders for our valley.”
The unveiling was a culmination of 40-plus residents who shared their vision to craft the mural, 28 residents who attended the Community Paint Day, nearly 60 hours of planning and meetings and 261 hours of artistic work provided by the Emerging Artists. O’Farrell summarized the 11 talented individuals.
Agustin Rosas: A Hemet resident, local tattoo artist, and community volunteer, Agustin brought previous mural experience and a passion for giving back through art. His commitment to providing free art classes for local youth reflects his belief that creativity can strengthen community connections.
Alex Aguirre: With more than 20 years of mural experience, Alex contributed both artistic expertise and mentorship to the project. Having called Hemet home for nearly two decades, he was excited to help create a mural that celebrates the community he proudly represents.
Artemis Jahansooz: Artemis is an interdisciplinary artist and designer whose work blends illustration, photography, graphic design, and storytelling. Inspired by the Inland Empire, Artemis views public art as a way to transform spaces into places where communities feel connected, welcomed, and represented.
Avel Walker: Avel is a multidisciplinary artist whose work centers on storytelling, community, and personal growth. Living in San Jacinto and actively serving the Hemet community through his church, he believes art has the power to challenge perceptions and inspire hope.
Carla Perez: A self-taught artist with mural experience in Tijuana, Mexico, Carla brings a strong foundation in acrylic and oil painting along with experience completing commissioned murals. Her participation reflects a desire to expand opportunities for public art throughout the region.
Eileen Lee: As a Mt. San Jacinto College student studying mural arts, Eileen brought fresh creative energy and a collaborative spirit. Her recent coursework and experience developing mural concepts made this project an opportunity to apply her education while contributing to her local community.
Eric Urena: Eric is an interdisciplinary artist whose work explores identity, narrative, and personal experience. Raised in Hemet and educated at UCLA, he returned to contribute to the community that shaped his artistic journey, bringing both technical skill and a thoughtful creative perspective.
Esmeralda Garcia: Esmeralda is a Southern California artist whose vibrant acrylic and pastel works are influenced by her Mexican heritage. Her colorful artistic style and appreciation for the Inland Empire’s landscapes contributed to the mural’s celebration of community, culture, and resilience.
Nancy Martin: Nancy is an accomplished visual artist with more than 20 years of experience creating murals and large-scale public artwork. Having made Hemet her home, she brought professional expertise and a deep appreciation for the Valley’s people, landscapes, and sense of belonging.
Sidonia Carrillo: Born and raised in Hemet, Sidonia has become an emerging leader within the Inland Empire arts community. Her connection to the valley is deeply personal, and she viewed the mural as an opportunity to celebrate the memories, relationships, and hometown pride that have shaped her life.
Zallah Hobson: Just turning 18 years old, Zallah represents the next generation of local artists. A lifelong Hemet resident, she has already exhibited work through the Hemet Valley Art Association and local youth entrepreneur events. The mural provided an opportunity to further develop her artistic skills while contributing to a project that reflects her hometown.
Visit Rosy Cortez’ website to learn more about her and to see the mural’s progress in action, www.paintedrosy.com/rosymurals/hemet-mural.
Healthy Valley Foundation, established in 2013, was named California Nonprofit of the Year in 2025 by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson. The organization focuses on advancing health equity, expanding access to care, and promoting upward social mobility. Through strategic partnerships and community-centered initiatives, the Foundation works to build a thriving, resilient valley—planting the seeds of well-being for generations to come.
For more information, www.healthyvalleyfoundation.org.
