Project Description
Amidst a starry sky and the iconic hills of the San Fernando Valley, artist Mel Depaz’s artwork highlights Plaza Del Valle, a beloved shopping complex and community hub home to approximately 100 small businesses and restaurants. Inspired by the plazas of Latin America, Plaza Del Valle also hosts community events with live entertainment and family-friendly activities, captured through Depaz’s mariachi-heart trumpeter and colorful folklorico dancers.
This artwork was commissioned for Metro’s Through the Eyes of Artists poster series for display in the Metro fleet.
Artist Statement
“My illustration of Panorama City focuses on the ambiance of the iconic Plaza Del Valle and the colors associated with the local architecture. For this piece I wanted to give off the energy of celebration, Latin culture, color, and music, and Plaza Del Valle is the exact place to highlight these themes.”
About the Artist
MELISSA DEPAZ better known as “Mel Depaz” (b. 1997) is a multimedia artist from Compton, CA specializing in digital illustration and large-scale murals. As a first-generation Salvadoran American, Mel’s work is deeply influenced by storytelling, community engagement, and vibrant illustration. Her commitment to public art has led her to facilitate workshops on painting and mural design, contributing to numerous community-driven projects In the LA area.
As a freelance artist, Mel has collaborated with major brands such as Foot Locker, Hulu, Rockstar, Angel City FC, Converse, Yoshinoya and Old Navy. Her work has been recognized in prominent media outlets, including Los Angeles Times, LA Taco, USC Media, and Telemundo.
About Through the Eyes of Artists
In the tradition of celebrating transportation through colorful travel destination posters, Metro Art commissions a diverse range of Los Angeles artists to create original artworks for the Through the Eyes of Artists poster series. Established in 2003, the posters are displayed onboard Metro trains and buses.
View other works in the series.
Display year: 2026