Saunders Park
Help Select Mural Designs for Saunders Park!
The City of Bakersfield, the Arts Council of Kern, and California Arts in Parks are bringing a new mural to Saunders Park, created by local artist Wendy Johnson—and we want your input!
Wendy has designed 8 unique mural concepts, each inspired by nature, community, and the beauty of public spaces. Vote for your top 4 favorites, and your choices will help shape the final mural.
Thank you for being part of this community art project!
Please take a few minutes to answer this short survey. Your responses will help us design a mural that truly represents what makes this park special to you and your community.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The City of Bakersfield’s Recreation & Parks Department and The Arts Council of Kern Announce ‘Arts in the Parks’ Mural Project at Saunders Park
Bakersfield, CA – The City of Bakersfield Recreation & Parks Department, in partnership with The Arts Council of Kern and California State Parks, is thrilled to introduce Arts in the Parks, a vibrant community-driven initiative that will transform Saunders Park into a dynamic arts destination. This exciting project will be led by renowned local artist Wendy Johnson.
Bringing California’s Parks to Bakersfield Through Art
Born and raised in Bakersfield, Wendy Johnson has always been captivated by the breathtaking beauty of California’s national, state, and local parks. Inspired by her deep appreciation for nature and her signature artistic style that incorporates circular designs, Wendy’s mural will create a visual journey through California’s most beloved parks—without ever leaving the city.
A Mural Inspired by the Community
The community is invited to play an active role in shaping this public artwork! Residents can vote on which California parks will be featured in Wendy’s mural by completing a short survey, available via a QR code on the Arts Council of Kern’s website and on-site at Saunders Park. This interactive process ensures that the mural reflects the places that inspire and resonate most with Bakersfield residents.
Join Us for Community Paint Day!
Be part of the creative process! On March 21, 2025, Bakersfield residents are invited to participate in a Community Paint Day inside the sports pavilion at Saunders Park. Under Wendy’s guidance, community members will help bring the mural to life, making their mark on this meaningful public art piece. This event marks the beginning of a series of celebrations aimed at revitalizing the park and promoting artistic expression in public spaces.
Join us in transforming Saunders Park into a hub of creativity and community pride. Together, we can make Bakersfield a more beautiful, inspiring, and accessible place for all.
Jeanette Richardson
Executive Director
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
All events start at 6pm except Oct 10th event.
MAR 21
Arts/Parks Kickoff Event
APRIL 10
Arts Paint Day
MAY 2
Skate The Art
JUNE 13
Movie in the Park/Art
SEP 19
Paint and Play
OCT 10
Finale/Closing program/Chalk Art
