Murals
The story behind the art
There are nine murals and four canvas portraits throughout the restaurant, each of which was designed with a specific message conveyed in a light-hearted manner.
Artist, Israel Cervantes, known as Ezra_One on social media is an accomplished street artist and graphic designer who completed the murals. He is widely recognized as one of the art world’s most creative talents. Cervantes is a graduate of the Art Institute of California with a Bachelor of Science degree in Media Arts and Animation. His unique style of Surrealism, complimented with graphic elements of shapes and color, has landed him in the pages of The Los Angeles Times, LA Weekly, and Juxtapoze magazine. His art depicts the people and culture of LA’s diverse community through vibrant and bold colors.
FRIDA KAHLO
The main dining room has been transformed with a portrait of the world-renowned artist, Frida Kahlo. Frida lived in chronic pain for most of her life. It is documented that Frida was diagnosed with polio at the age of six. Additionally, Frida was in a bus accident which resulted in many fractured bones. It is said that she had a tumultuous relationship with Artist Diego Rivera. Her art often expressed the physical and emotional anguish she experienced.
Despite Frida’s challenges, she was a strong thought-provoking woman that did not view herself as a victim of her circumstances. She was ahead of her time as demonstrated by the way she lived and the manner in which she viewed life as depicted in her art. It’s said, she enjoyed tequila shots to ease her pain. The quote from Kahlo, “Doctor, if you let me have this shot of Tequila, I promise not to drink at my funeral.” This quote was the inspiration behind the mural.
CARLOS SANTANA
Santana is a famous global guitarist whose unique style of infusing rock ‘n’ roll with Latin American jazz, Afro beats and blues made him famous worldwide. In 1988 Santana and his family created the Milagro Foundation. Its purpose is to help vulnerable and underserved children in the arts, education, and health. His commitment and passion is based on the belief that “We Can Change the World.” Santa uses his music as a powerful spiritual tool and received numerous prestigious awards for his music throughout his career. Some awards include Billboard, Medallions of Excellence, and Grammys. He continues to perform worldwide and to receive accolades.
SELENA
Selena was a famous songstress known as the “Queen of Tejano Music”. Her contributions to music and fashion made her one of the most celebrated Mexican American entertainers. She was a producer and fashion designer and the first major performer to record in Spanish and English. Unfortunately, Selena was murdered at the young age of twenty-three by the president of her fan club but made an immense impact on the world in her short-lived life.
EDWARD JAMES OLMOS
Olmos is a famous actor, producer, and film and television director. He has an extensive history of activism for various causes and is known for “getting his hands dirty”. After the 1992 riots, Olmos helped with the clean-up efforts, and in 1988, he founded Latino Public Broadcasting. He sits on several boards and works closely with non-profit organizations, in particular, disabled and sexually abused children. He also has won countless awards including the Screen Actors Guild, Golden Globe winner, and Emmy nominations. He continues to act and participate in causes addressing current issues.
JENNI RIVERA
Rivera was a famous singer known as “La Gran Senora”. She was a songstress, reality-TV star, producer, philanthropist, businesswoman, and activist. She was also a spokeswoman for the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and used her fame as a platform to impact the lives of others. She often shared her personal story regarding Domestic Violence. She provided much hope and strength to many. Sadly, she died in a tragic plane crash in 2012.
TRIBUTE TO BURBANK
The Rivera’s wanted to acknowledge Burbank and thank their loyal customers that have been supportive of Tequilas over the past 10 years. They have found that the residents in Burbank have lots of pride regarding their city. Also, many tourists visit Tequilas because Burbank is one of the media capitals of the world. Finally, they believed it would be a fun mural to take pictures/selfies with while having delicious food.
Tequila Bar
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