BEST TILE/MOSAIC PROJECT

Watsonville Brillante 
Local 3 California
Signatory Contractor: Rinaldi Tile & Marble

Watsonville Brillante has transformed the heart of Watsonville, CA into a vibrant celebration of culture and history. Despite challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, the vision for this massive public art installation came to life over the course of several years. Using over 300,000 tiles, BAC Local 3 CA members brought the murals to life – working tirelessly, transforming a parking lot into a breathtaking representation of the city’s history and soul, piece by piece.

The first mural, The Strawberry Picker, was designed to represent a Mexican farmworker harvesting strawberries. Later that year, the Apple Picker mural was completed, followed by Hermanita, a mural of an indigenous woman, which took a full year to design and complete. Finally, the Flower Grower mural was installed, rounding out the first half of this awe-inspiring project.
 
The murals, which celebrate the area’s agricultural roots, are massive – some reaching up to 60 feet tall. The second phase of the project involved additional murals designed by more than 100 local artists. These horizontal pieces fill the space between the vertical murals. 

What makes this project truly special is not only the artistry but also the incredible generosity that made it all possible. The entire project was funded through private donations, including a significant contribution from Fireclay Tiles, who donated 80% of the tiles, and Daltile, which provided the remaining materials. 

Countless volunteers, students, and community members worked tirelessly at the Muzzio Mosaic Arts Center, leasing the center for just $1 a year to complete this project. Also, not only did Rinaldi Tile & Marble take on the monumental task of leading the installation of the murals, but Rick Rinaldi and his parents, Yvonne and Gino Rinaldi Sr., donated all the labor for the installation and helped the artists connect with the manufacturers who provided materials.

These powerful murals are a testament to the skill, dedication, and creativity of everyone involved. They will long be a vibrant and lasting part of Watsonville’s identity, telling the story of its rich history and diverse community.