Artist Luis Valle, Captured by Rod Deal

It’s been a month since Miami artist Luis Valle put the finishing touches on “Run,” his mural of four galloping horses, gracing the Robert H. Bamford Sports Complex in the Town of Davie.

Created as part of Broward County’s Cultural Division and the VisualEYES 100 Mural Project,the mural is part of a county-wide public art project, celebrating the county’s centennial.

“The mural is amazing,” says Town of Davie Vice Mayor Susan Starkey.  “It captures the spirit of Davie.”

“Luis is wonderfully talented,” Starkey says.   “When he realized what we were looking for, he came up with a sketch that incorporated all the elements representing the Town.”

Also excited about the mural is Davie resident, Hilda Testa, who works in the complex as a recreation leader.

“The mural is beautiful,” Testa says.  “It shows off what makes Davie special.”

Testa believes public art sets a tone for a city.

“As soon as you see a town with public art, you know the town cares about its residents,” Testa says.  “Art opens minds and enriches us.”

And, according to Palm Beach County artist Rolando Chang Barrero, who speaks about the impact of public art on communities, public art brings visitors and life to a town.

“When an area endorses public art, it enlivens the community,” he says.  “Public art makes for vibrant communities and people want to live among art.”