Mural Stories: How Can You See Nine California Parks at One Time?
Sponsored by Boys and Girls Clubs of Kern County
by Mary Anne Radmacher, Arts Council of Kern
Feb 26, 2026
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Wendy Johnson's murals highlight Mono Basin, Yosemite, Pinnacles, Mill Creek City Park, Morro Bay, and Red Rock Canyon. PHOTO BY SEAN NAVEJAS
Artist Wendy Johnson and her Art with HeART team captured the attention of the Arts in California Parks program, earning the opportunity to design murals selected by public input. Over two years, from concept to completion, the project was funded by a State Parks grant submitted by the Bakersfield Parks & Recreation Department.

In partnership with the City of Bakersfield and the Arts Council of Kern, six community events celebrated national, state, and local parks. The murals highlight the Sacramento State Capitol, Mono Basin, Yosemite, Pinnacles, Mill Creek City Park, Morro Bay, and Red Rock Canyon. Each scene features indigenous plants, wildlife, and creatures that fly, crawl, and slither, bringing these popular California landscapes vividly to life.

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PHOTO BY SEAN NAVEJAS
Johnson reflects, “It was an honor to have my mural design approved through the Arts in California Parks grant. Giving back to my city is part of my soul. When I learned I would lead all six community events, I knew I would make them memorable for the families who visited.” Visit they did! and still do!

Saunders Park was chosen as a time-honored gathering place. The neighboring firehouse participated over the months enthusiastically, alongside hundreds of residents, media, and elected officials. The City of Bakersfield worked diligently alongside the partners to bring notable improvements to the park, among them, a new path, refreshed grass, new walls, and shade trees.

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PHOTO BY SEAN NAVEJAS
The project extended beyond the featured murals. The pavilion has fresh teal-painted walls and 15 miniature murals painted with the help of neighbors, strengthening the park’s sense of shared responsibility and unity.

Asked to summarize the whole project, Johnson said, “I’m forever grateful to those who saw my worth and trusted my capacity to help make this project come to life. It will continue to draw attention to the beauty that is revered by those who protect and preserve the natural beauty of California. “


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PHOTO BY SEAN NAVEJAS
Where to see it:

Saunders Park

3300 Palm Street

Bakersfield, CA 93309


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