Wowhaus redefines the mural as a dynamic rather than a static element in the landscape through a system to create lenticular murals: two large-scale images on one wall that function as a two-cell animation; the image changes constantly as the viewer passes by. This system also enables the artist to invite large-scale community participation in the creation of a monumental work; many people can contribute to the conception and creation of the project. This process embraces a new approach to ceramic tile production, emphasizing collective collaboration.

The Calaveras Murals reflect the unique ecosystem of the Calaveras River, a body of water that is part of the San Joaquin Delta. Many children hadn’t realized that the Calaveras River flowed by their schools; over 200 of these students ages 6 through 18 contributed to the creation of the murals. Students also accompanied the artists in expeditions to the river itself, collecting reference material and observing wildlife first-hand; the artists and students also participated in an annual river clean-up. Students learned about the function of the pumps stations, which connect to the river as part of the city’s water system.

View of wall from right View of wall from left

In a unique system developed by Wowhaus, two tile murals are mounted on a corrugated substrate on the same wall. Individual murals are fully intact when viewed from opposite angles.

The images morph into each other while the viewer is standing straight in front of the walls; the images change constantly as the viewer passes by, encouraging the public to actively engage with the piece as the images permeate each other.