The Coastal Stories – Guadalupe Dunes Mural was a labor of love by renowned local muralist, Colleen Gnos.  Colleen was selected from a broad and talented pool of artists to design and paint the mural which is featured on the wall at the corner of West Main Street (Hwy 166) and Calle Cesar Chavez, adjacent to Jack O’Connell Park.  The mural’s vibrant colors make it clearly visible to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic on the way out to the Rancho Nipomo Dunes Beach area.

Not satisfied to simply paint an “idea,” Colleen did a deep dive into local research, speaking with local historians, the Rancho De Guadalupe Historical Society, the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center, and interviewing local residents.  The results are a spectacular view of Guadalupe’s history; a visual snapshot times gone by – each part of the mural telling stories of people who’s voices were not always heard.

Sharp-eyed viewers may find (amongst many other things): Tule Grass, Broccoli, the North Star, a Peregrine Falcon, Grizzly Bear, Coastal Sage, and a Red Admiral Butterfly.  You will also see a Chumash Barracuda Dance, the old Bud Wong and Chicago Chop Suey restaurant, Mixtec workers, Joe Harris, Harry Masatani, and Gilbert Robles.  There is even more in the mural so be sure to stop by and take it all in…see what else you can find!