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Port-selected artist to create artwork for Pure Plaza splash pad mechanical enclosure
Summary
The Port of San Diego and Imperial Beach announced artist Nicole Pete will create a two-sided design for the Pure Plaza splash pad mechanical enclosure, combining a bright beach-side for children and an educational Tijuana Estuary side highlighting birds and Kumeyaay culture; the artist will pursue community outreach before final design.
Scott Davis, public art administrator for the Port of San Diego, introduced Nicole Pete as the selected artist for the mechanical enclosure at Imperial Beach’s Pure Plaza splash pad after a public call that drew nearly 50 submissions from four Southern California counties.
Pete described a two-sided concept: a colorful "beach side" aimed at children and a more educational estuary side that highlights local bird species and acknowledges Kumeyaay people and native plants. She said she intends to solicit community feedback through social media and in-person outreach at local events and will work with the city’s communications and survey teams to refine placement and scale.
The artist noted practical design constraints — including keeping colors and materials cool to avoid heat buildup on the enclosure — and said her vector-based approach makes adjustments relatively simple. Councilmembers praised the concept, recommended outreach at local events and the Tijuana Estuary visitor center, and thanked the Port for sponsoring the selection process.
Council indicated no formal action was required and the presentation was filed. The city said residents who wish to review details can request the artist's materials through the city’s communications office.
What happens next: the artist will coordinate outreach with city staff and incorporate community feedback into the final design.
