South Pasadena Arts Council Launches Fundraiser to Restore Defaced Kobe Bryant Mural

The South Pasadena Arts Council (SPARC) has launched a fundraiser to restore the defaced Kobe Bryant mural, located on the northeast corner of Mission Street and Diamond Avenue in South Pasadena.

The 15×15-foot mural, painted by renowned artist Jonas Never, was based on the last photo of Kobe in a Lakers uniform following his final game in 2016 by National Basketball Association photographer Andrew D. Bernstein, a SPARC board member.

The mural was unveiled in 2021 and was extensively vandalized by graffiti on Nov. 5 last year.

SPARC aims to raise $3,000 for the restoration, covering the reimbursement costs to the artist and applying a new anti-graffiti coating.

“Our mission, ‘Igniting Creativity, Illuminating the Arts,’ is reflected in this project, intended not only for our community but for those outside our city to enjoy,” Sandra Kitto, SPARC Board President, said. “We are dedicated to maintaining this meaningful mural and supporting its gifted artist, and we deeply appreciate any donation amount that will help us achieve that.”

Donors contributing $100 or more will receive a copy of The Mamba Mentality: How I Play, a collaboration between Bryant and Bernstein, the Lakers’ official photographer.

Contributions are accepted through SPARC’s website, www.sopasartscouncil.org/.

The South Pasadena Arts Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization. Donations are tax-deductible.