Adam Vigil & Chris Sanchez - Sunnyslope HUB Mural

 Phoenix

Adam Vigil & Chris Sanchez - Sunnyslope HUB Mural

9405 N 1st Ave, Phoenix

This community service project, headed by Eagle Scout Caleb Gomez, has helped to brighten up Hatcher Rd. in the Sunnyslope area.  Painted on the wall of Madison Boxing Gym, the mural is a tribute to trainer “Ricky” Ricardo, praised for providing an alternative to drugs and gangs by providing a focus for kids in the boxing gym.  A great example of art reflecting the values of a neighborhood.

Sunnyslope HUB Mural was painted by two Phoenix natives, Adam Vigil (ABomb) and Chris Sanchez (Volar).  Both have a background in graffiti art and murals, with work produced throughout the Valley.  Though we are used to artists expressing their personal visions in their art, Sunnyslope HUB Mural presents a different type of work, where Adam and Chris have brought to life the vision that Caleb had for this project.  As we will see, each piece of the mural ties into Caleb’s experience of living in Sunnyslope.

I am first drawn to the white “S” of Sunnyslope Mountain.  This symbol is iconic to the Sunnyslope area, first painted by Sunnyslope High School students in 1954.  It is tradition for freshmen to climb the mountain and repaint the “S” each year, as it overlooks the school and the surrounding neighborhood.

On the left of Sunnyslope HUB Mural is Caleb’s nod to “Ricky” Ricardo, shown by a flexing cactus arm wearing a boxing glove monogrammed with R. R.  Under that is an eagle, representing Caleb’s involvement with the Boys Scouts of America and his achievement of Eagle Scout status.  Finally, on the right, is the symbol of the revitalization group, theHUB (Hatcher Urban Businesses), which is working to improve the Hatcher Rd. area between 19th Ave. and Cave Creek Rd.

The feel of Sunnyslope HUB Mural is one of light, hope, and what is to come.  It holds that youthful optimism that can help us move into the future, both personally and communally. 

You will find the mural on the west side of Madison Boxing Gym, right on the NE corner of E Hatcher Rd. and 1st Ave.  There is also plenty of parking available.

Check out more of Adam Vigil’s work at ABomb the Artist.

Last verified 12/2020.