The County of Ventura invites the public to celebrate the completion of the Moon Ditch Mural, a landmark public art project that has transformed a flood control channel into one of the largest murals in the United States. Spanning approximately 3,400 linear feet (about two-thirds of a mile), the project was created through a partnership of local artists, volunteers, community organizations, and County agencies, demonstrating how participation in the arts can foster connection, support mental well-being, and inspire environmental stewardship.
The Moon Ditch Mural Completion Celebration will recognize the artists, volunteers, community organizations, and County partners who helped bring the project to life. The event will feature remarks from project leaders and artists, opportunities to learn more about the mural’s creation, and a rare chance to see the mural up close from the floor of the channel.
Community Celebration Details
Date: Saturday, June 27, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (Program begins at 10:15 a.m.)
Location: Moon Ditch Mural, Ventura, CA – Intersection of Leland Street and Hofer Road, beneath the Ventura Auto Center sign
Visible from southbound Highway 101 between Victoria Avenue and Johnson Drive, the Moon Ditch Mural is a vibrant celebration of Ventura County’s living watershed. Designed by Oxnard-based artist Elisa Torres and brought to life by a team of local artists, it features bold imagery and vibrant colors depicting native plants, wildlife, and waterways, including tule reeds, monarch butterflies, dragonflies, egrets, and great blue herons.
Beyond its visual impact, the project brought community members together from across the county. Through community paint days and volunteer opportunities, families, students, seniors, and justice-involved youth worked alongside the artist team to help create the artwork. An estimated 200 volunteers contributed through community paint days, educational programs, and beautification efforts, fostering meaningful social connections and a shared sense of purpose while helping bring the mural to life.
The project was led by District 1 Supervisor Matt LaVere’s Office, the County of Ventura Arts and Culture Unit, and the Public Works Agency’s Watershed Protection District in partnership with Ventura County Behavioral Health, Ventura County Probation, and Studio Channel Islands Art Center. The artist team was led by Elisa Torres and included Josh Burns, MB Hanrahan, Kyle Navarro, Dameon Pearson, Monika Petrosky, Andrew Rodriguez, and Jen Swain.
“The Moon Ditch Mural demonstrates what is possible when artists, public agencies, and the community come together around a shared vision,” said Supervisor LaVere. “Through community paint days and volunteer opportunities, artists and residents worked side-by-side to create this landmark project celebrating our local watershed and the natural beauty of Ventura County. What was once viewed primarily as flood control infrastructure has been transformed into a vibrant community landmark that reflects the strong social bonds, civic pride, and spirit of collaboration that define our county.”
As both a community gathering place and a visual celebration of the local environment, the mural reflects the intersection of art, education, and stewardship. Its design encourages residents to explore the connections between people, place, and the natural systems that support life throughout the watershed.
“The Moon Ditch Mural was designed to reconnect people with the living systems that sustain our communities,” said lead artist Elisa Torres. “Through images of native plants, animals, and water elements, the artwork tells a story of movement, connection, and stewardship across the watershed. The mural encourages moments of curiosity, reflection, and connection to the natural world, experiences that contribute to both individual well-being and a stronger sense of community.”
The Moon Ditch Mural is part of VibeWell Ventura County, a countywide initiative that uses arts and culture to support mental health and community well-being. The project was funded through Ventura County Behavioral Health, Mental Health Services Act, with additional support from private sponsors and community partners.
More information about the Moon Ditch Mural Completion Celebration, including parking instructions and recommended attire and footwear to enter the channel, is available at: https://studiochannelislands.org/moon-ditch/.
