A Community of Immigrants Mural
I paint murals that connect us to the histories and cultures that shape a place.
Client: Mitsuru Sushi & Grill
Location: Little Tokyo, Los Angeles
Year: 2026
Role: Lead Artist
Medium: Acrylic paint
Project Type: Temporary storefront mural
When Mitsuru Sushi & Grill boarded its storefront during the anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, the owner wanted to transform the temporary surface into something meaningful for the neighborhood. Together, we developed a mural portraying his father and sisters—a reminder that Little Tokyo itself is a community shaped by generations of immigrants.
The Challenge
The storefront had been boarded during a period of outrage during which some neighborhood businesses were tagged. A call went out for artists who could decorate the blank plywood storefronts.
The Response
As the community responded with “Little Tokyo is a Community of Immigrants,” I worked with the owner to identify family photographs and developed portraits of Mitsuru, Chiyo, and Shintarou.
The Outcome
As the mural was painted, neighborhood elders stopped by to comment on seeing these familiar Japanese American faces represented at street scale. The temporary storefront became both a protective intervention and a public reminder of Little Tokyo's immigrant history.
Mitsuru Sushi & Grill: This Little Tokyo legacy business wanted to beautify their boarded up windows. Together, we came up with the idea of a temporary mural portraying the owner's sisters and father, reminding passersby that this too is a community of immigrants.
COMMUNITY RESPONSE: While painting this public art, many passing elders expressed their enjoyment of seeing these faces painted large on the street. Even in our own community, everyday representations of us can sometimes be hard to find.
Mitsuru, the owner's sister and the business' namesake.
Chiyo & Shintarou, the owner's other sister, and father.
Street view of Mitsuru Sushi & Grill, with a large mural of a woman painted on the wall beneath the sign, and a white paper lantern hanging above the entrance. Trees, signage, and part of the sidewalk are visible in the background.
Have a place with a story to tell?
I work with businesses, cultural organizations, schools, nonprofits, and civic partners to create murals rooted in place, history, and community. You don't need to have every detail figured out to start a conversation.