San Jose Walls 2024 AIR

The mural "Serpentine Fire" was created to celebrate the Lunar Year of the Dragon and honor the multiculturalism of San José. "This mural represents dragon mythology from around the world," says Taki Kitamura. "Through Serpentine Fire, I wanted to express the diversity of serpent divinity and sacred spaces. The dragon and serpent have held deep symbolic meaning across countless cultures, and in them, I see our common humanity." The artwork explores dragon and serpent mythology across cultures, incorporating elements from East Asian, South Asian, Indigenous, and European traditions. Scenes in the mural invite public interaction, allowing viewers to engage directly with the symbolic tapestry of dragons that highlight both the uniqueness and shared themes in mythologies worldwide. The mural aims to create a space of reflection and unity, encouraging viewers to consider how these iconic symbols of strength, protection, and transformation echo our collective heritage.