November 12, 2014 5:54 AM
Despite Santa Barbara’s strict building code, the Architectural Board of Review unanimously approved a permanent permit for a mural painting of Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are” on the rear exterior of the Church of Skatan.
Painted by muralist David Flores, the mural’s fate had been in limbo because the skate shop’s owner, Anthony Buyalos, hadn’t acquired a permit at the time the mural was painted on the wall facing REI, the neighboring sporting goods store.
Last year, the board approved a temporary permit for one year. Had the permanent permit request been declined, the store at 26 E. Gutierrez St. would have been required to remove the mural.
“We’ve had massive positive response (to the mural),” said Krishna Buyalos, representing Mr. Buyalos at the meeting. “Unfortunately, we didn’t go through the correct process … but we were given a spontaneous opportunity to get to do this.”
The board concluded that the mural had artistic merit that warranted preserving.
Paul Zink, board chairman, read aloud a recommendation letter from REI expressing its appreciation for the mural.
“We are very happy to see this wonderful piece of art rather than just a plain old building,” the letter read. “The mural not only improves the aesthetics of the parking lot but provides enjoyment. We often see people taking pictures. The mural also has deterred graffiti.”
Permanent standing for the mural isn’t enough, however, said Ginny Brush, executive director of the Santa Barbara County Arts Commission.
She recommended signs near the mural to provide more information about Mr. Flores and his work.
“David’s work is distinctive and he continues to gain national recognition for his large-scale commemorative murals,” Ms. Brush said.
Kyle Fournier, manager of Church of Skatan, said the store has been limited in what it has been allowed to post on its exterior walls. The store even had to take down a small sign near its entrance that read, “Go skate.”
Failure to remove graffiti or art from public buildings in downtown Santa Barbara can result in hefty fines, Mr. Fournier said.
“We barely have any banners or anything even saying we’re a skate shop,” Mr. Fournier added.
Keeping the mural is justified because of its quality, he said.
The board also concluded that other means to preserve artistic integrity should be explored.
-m.hedenberg
“Where the Wild Things Are” is painted on the back of the Church of Skatan at
26 E. Gutierrez St.
STEVE MALONE / NEWS-PRESS