The Restoration Has Begun!

Exciting news! This week, the restoration of the Anthology of Argentine Mural has begun!

First completed in 1998, the Mural, painted by Jesus Ortiz, Jose Faus, Alisha Gambino, Virginia Oropeza Delgado, Tito Franco and a group of volunteers, serves as a symbol of resilience and pride in the Argentine Community. Regarded as one of the longest murals in the Kansas City area, it is iconic through its unique storytelling method. It tells a chronological history of Argentine from its indigenous history, township, and incorporation into Kansas City until the present day. It manages to highlight the good, the bad, but above all else, the perseverance of a neighborhood.

Before the first strokes of the Mural were even painted, behind-the-scenes preparations were taking place. Thanks to local community efforts, the wall was sprayed down and cleared of debris to ensure a clean canvas. A newspaper clipping detailing the event can be found below.

Additionally, fundraising for the Mural was essential. Original costs outside of labor included paint supplies, food, scaffolding, transportation, liability insurance, and administrative fees. Some of the many donors that helped alleviate the costs include the Kansas City, Kansas Community College, Kansas City Power and Light, Sprint Corporation, Tiny Signs, AZTECA de Greater Kansas City, the Unified Government, and the Kaw Valley Arts and Humanities, among many others.

The Anthology of Argentine Mural was created by the community for the community. We invite you to take the time to drive by and see the progress of its restoration at 3160 Metropolitan Ave, Kansas City, KS, thanks to Jose Faus! The completion of the Mural is more than just the finalization of an artwork, but a testament to the preservation of the unique culture of Argentine.