SLO Natural Foods Co-op in San Luis Obispo, is showing off a lot more local color, thanks to new artwork contributed by three local artists, Sally Lamas, Sara McGrath and Elly Aichele who generously donated their time and talent to complete these projects. Lamas created two murals on the SLO Natural Foods Building, titled Vegetable Divine and Simply Delicious. Aichele donated colorful paintings to adorn the side fence, and McGrath led several young artists to transform the back wall.
The two 7’ x 14’ murals by Lamas feature the beauty of our local produce, from prickly artichokes to purple eggplants. She depicts fruits and veggies sliced open for the view to see their insides. “When I cut open a pomegranate, I feel like I’m opening a treasure chest full of jewels,” she said. Lamas coordinated with friends to help her paint the mural at the front of the building. “The speed of painting and sealing – seven days from start to finish – was extraordinary to me as I’ve never collaborated with others on such a large scale,” Lamas said. “There is a special delight in communal accomplishment that one doesn’t experience working in solitude.”
On the second mural near the store’s entry, Lamas worked mostly alone over twenty-three days, getting up early to beat the extreme summer heat on the south facing wall.
Lamas has also painted private murals in Atascadero, at Obispo Hyperbarics, and two utility boxes for the City of Pismo Beach. Her greeting cards are on sale at SLO Natural Foods Co-op, including a new card of the Simply Delicious mural. Aimee Wyatt, Director of SLO Natural Foods, notes, “Partnerships for food and community are our business at the co-op. We are thankful for the work of these talented artists, adding such wonderful vibrancy to the exterior of the store, now matching the amazing food colors shoppers see inside.” The Co-op is hosting a reception at the store to thank the artists on Tuesday, February 6th from 5-6:30pm.
New Members are always welcome and anyone can shop at SLO Natural Foods Co-op, a Member Owned Cooperative and local food provider in SLO for 40 years. The co-op provides products and information that empowers community health and well-being by promoting non-GMO standards and supporting local farmers and producers.
Hours are Monday through Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday 10am-5pm. Annual memberships are $25 and Members receive additional benefits. See more at www.slonaturalfoods.coop or stop by the store at 2494 Victoria Ave, one block east of Broad at Caudill.