Java.NOV.2015

Lalo Cota
From Folklore to Phoenix • By Rhett Baruch
Not too long ago, many viewed street art in a negative way—perhaps, in
a gang-related type of way. But what we now have throughout the Valley
has realistically beautified buildings that often had been nothing more than
forgotten structures. I’m not sure what could be worse than staring at a
taupe or tan-colored wall on your commute or during your exploration of the
city—but I’m glad things have gone this way.
Many, including some of our politicians, agree that this is a step in the right
direction. In fact, the art form and the projects that have come along have
become increasingly accepted by the masses in the Valley. It’s obvious that
the murals have provoked locals and visitors to explore, in turn stimulating
local business, which is yet another way to create a point of destination and
encourage walkability—a concept that is finally becoming more of a reality.
For most locals, transportation and public services have made up a lot
of ground over the past decade. A lot of good moves, but perhaps there
have been some poor decisions regarding how we should create artistic
attractions and what assets are granted to particular artists.
Last year I sat in on some panels at the AIA downtown. Walkability was the
main topic, and there were ideas from all sorts of professionals. However,
most of these solutions required a lot of capital and engineering. Working
with what is already present is not only a more economical route, but also
ecological. It also allows creation to occur more quickly.
Someone true to his game since day one of the Phoenix street art scene,
Lalo Cota has been creating what he likes, primarily where he chooses, for
20+ years. Cota moved here from Sinaloa, Mexico, at the age of eight and
is mainly inspired by Chicano folklore and lowrider culture. The folklore that
inspires his work is about teaching lessons in a darker way to scare children
into doing the right things in life. Most of his works, however, do not
present an alarming amount of horrific scenery; they are more on the playful
end of things. Expect a vast array of bright colors, bomb lowriders, Arizona
skylines, desert plant life and Dias de los Muertos skulls. Also, there are
the occasional stabs at your not-too-friendly state politicians, clever and
always fun to look at.
I interviewed Lalo Cota as he was starting his newest piece on 5th Street,
a location where some of our current top muralists, including Cota, Pablo
Luna, Angel Diaz, Breeze, and JB Snyder, made their start.
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