John Paul the Great presents privately funded mural proposal for former Mingue Museum wall

John Paul the Great Catholic University representatives presented a proposal to the Escondido Public Art Commission for a privately funded mural on the west-facing wall of the former Mingue Museum at 155 West Grand Avenue.

The artist, Keanna Harrod, described the mural as a roughly 16-by-30-foot composition centered on Carlos Acutis, a young Roman Catholic from Milan who died at 15. Harrod said the design shows Acutis with a halo and a rosary and includes images referencing his interests — books, headphones, a game controller and computer coding — intended to show "how the faith was the center of his life." Kevin Mazur, chief operating officer for John Paul the Great, said the university plans to install the work on printed aluminum panels.

Commission members offered informal feedback rather than a formal approval. Commissioners praised the composition and color palette and suggested adding an interpretive plaque or QR code so passersby can learn who is depicted. Staff clarified that the mural is privately funded and on private property, so the presentation was for the commission's review and comment only; no formal city approval or funding was required. Commissioner questions prompted technical clarifications that the panels are digitally printed on aluminum and that the university expects a long lifespan for the installation.

Robert Rhodes (assistant director of community services) and applicant representatives said they aim to install the mural after nearby construction is completed; the university targets roughly 60 to 90 days after construction allows access. The presenter said there are currently no plans to apply a graffiti-resistant coating because the panel will be above pedestrian height and previous similar installations have not had graffiti issues.

The commission did not take formal action; staff recorded the comments for the university to incorporate.