ALBUQUERQUE – A bold new mural is bringing color and creativity to the Very Special Arts (VSA) Parking Garage behind the KiMo Theatre in Downtown Albuquerque. The artwork features a lion, the mascot of Amy Biehl Charter High School, and incorporates vegetation that matches the new Parking Parquito mural on the opposite end of the garage. Local artist Malcolm King sketched the design on the wall, and students from the high school painted in the outline, paint-by-numbers style.
“This was an incredibly fun and unique experience to share with the students,” said Amy Biehl Teacher Jessica Carlton. “I am grateful for the City’s investment in the students and our community by allowing us to beautify this space.”
“Working with my classmates to paint this mural was a slightly challenging but ultimately rewarding process,” said Amy Biehl Student Dara V. “It was fun to see how the mural evolved each time we went to paint.”
The initiative was made possible through a partnership with the City of Albuquerque’s Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA), Parking Division, and Solid Waste Department. The artist and supplies were funded by the MRA, while the Solid Waste Department’s graffiti team supported painting efforts. The project provided students with a unique opportunity to contribute to the long-term beautification and revitalization of the city.
“A vibrant downtown is the heart of any great city, and projects like this remind us how art can bring people together, inspire connection, and create places where everyone feels a sense of belonging,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “By investing in our community and supporting partnerships like this one, we’re beautifying Albuquerque and creating more vibrant neighborhoods.”
Through partnerships with local organizations like Amy Biehl High School, MRA is fostering creative, community-driven projects. The VSA Parking Garage is one of many downtown spaces benefiting from this vision. While it already houses a variety of public art, there are still underutilized walls that can serve as canvases for future projects.
“This mural is a testament to what can be achieved when students, local artists, and city departments come together to reimagine public spaces,” said MRA Director Terry Brunner. “Our vision for downtown is about creating opportunities for collaboration, inspiring pride, and ensuring these areas reflect the diverse and dynamic spirit of Albuquerque, all while enhancing the area’s physical environment.”
The completed mural can be viewed at the VSA Parking Garage located at 5th Street NW in Downtown Albuquerque.
