A World Cup-themed mural created for the 1994 World Cup in Los Angeles will be on display at the Central Library through 2028 as the tournament returns to the city.
The mural, “World Encounter over El Arroyo Seco,” by East Los Streetscapers artists David Botello and Wayne Healy, is on view in the atrium of the Tom Bradley Wing near the Art, Music and Recreation Department, according to the Los Angeles Public Library
Created in 1994 during the last time L.A. hosted World Cup matches, the mural depicts two soccer players battling for possession of a ball as they float through space toward a satellite. Below them is the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, where World Cup matches were played that year.
The work measures approximately 9 1/2 feet by 24 feet and was designed to reflect the global reach of the sport and the ability of international competition to bring people together, officials said.
“Los Angeles Public Library is thrilled to pay tribute to the world’s passion for soccer with this spectacular, multi-story mural,” City Librarian John F. Szabo said in a statement. “Although the East Los Streetscapers painted the piece in 1994, their message of hope that international sports can help unite the world resonates today.”
The mural originally was installed atop the former air traffic control tower at Hollywood-Burbank Airport during the 1994 World Cup, serving as a welcome symbol for visitors arriving for the tournament. After being displayed for about a month, it was placed in storage for more than 30 years.
Botello and Healy have collaborated on public art projects for nearly 50 years.
“Displaying the mural near our Art and Recreation department is a wonderful idea and a nod to both sport and play,” Central Library Director Kren Malone said. “It not only highlights the excitement of soccer but also beautifully captures the art of movement and moments of intensity through color and action.”
The East Los Streetscapers, originally known as Los Dos Streetscapers, were founded in the 1970s and emerged from the Chicano Mural Movement. Their murals frequently feature diverse communities and emphasize shared cultural traditions throughout Los Angeles.
Library officials said the display coincides with Kick It in the Library, a soccer-themed series of programs and events planned at Central Library and branch locations during the World Cup period.
“This summer, we are celebrating all things soccer, or fútbol, by holding events in our branches and Central Library,” said Mayra Valadez, president of the Board of Library Commissioners.
The mural will remain on view through August 2028, encompassing both the World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.