Artist Momo creates nine different art pieces in Yuma

Is Yuma becoming an artists paradise? Perhaps, as world renown artist Momo is making a lasting impression on our city.

A project that is over a year in the making, was unanimously approved by the the city of Yuma’s design and historic review commission. The artist, Momo, specializes in creating art pieces in public spaces and using handmade tools to design and install murals. His work has been seen all over the world and now he is here in Yuma creating not one, but nine different pieces by the end of the month. . This was all made possible by Maria and Mike McKivergan, who are local art collectors from Yuma county. They have generously gifted this work of art to Yuma and have sponsored Momo’s visit. Momo shares with us what we can expect from his artwork.

“That painting will be purely abstract. It’s just about color and line, rhythm and harmonies and that kind of thing to make a great looking composition in the space there. The difference between the mural on the art center and the smaller things we’ll do around town is that the art center is like a completed painting. The smaller things around town will be more like drawings,” said Momo.

He adds that the drawings in town will be interwoven with the scenery of Yuma and less obvious than main mural at the Yuma Art Center; Almost like secret features of a work or an Easter egg.

The project is also supported by the Historic Coronado Hotel, LG Paints and Sun Rentals who have donated lodging and supplies.

Here’s a quote from Lindsay Benacka of the Yuma Art Center.

“This mural truly encompasses the art center as a whole. All too often the arts are mistaken to be frivolous or stuffy and this mural tells a much more realistic story. It’s vibrant, full of life, and it’s whatever you want it to be. We are incredibly thankful for the community’s outpouring of support for the mural and for the McKivergan family for this gift to our center and community.”

The rest of Momo’s artwork will be in various areas of the historic district including several trash enclosures, the Alement, the free standing wall next to Jimmy Dee’s and the old gas station next to the community garden on Orange Avenue.

For more on Momo, you can visit his website at http://momoshowpalace.com/