In Stamps Courtyard on the campus of California Baptist University, a mural of a charger without the CBU lancer was painted on the pavement as a photo opportunity for students and visitors.
When viewed from most directions, the image appeared distorted and unusual. However, when viewed from a precise location marked by a painted pair of footprints, the mural revealed a horse known as a charger with an empty saddle and a lance, a wooden shaft used by horsemen.
Located near Wanda’s and the Yeager Center, the mural used an anamorphic or 3D art style. The design allowed people to sit on the ground and appear as if they were sitting in the saddle of the charger. The lance painted beside the horse allowed those in the saddle to appear as though they were holding it. The horse itself appeared to jump through the brick pavement.
Kristeen Farlow, senior director of communications and public relations, and Teresa Sheets, administrative services manager, explained the background of the mural. The charger mural was part of a series of projects on campus planned by the marketing and communication department called “Moments of Delights.”
In honor of the 75th anniversary of CBU, the department created small moments across campus designed to bring joy to students throughout the year. These moments included a hopscotch game painted near the Fowler Events Center for students leaving chapel and signs with encouraging Bible verses posted around campus during finals week.
Faith Ellzey, senior international marketing major, shared her reaction to the mural.
“I think it’s beautiful. I love how detailed it is and how clean the lines are,” Ellzey said.
Ellzey said she initially felt confused about what the mural represented. Once she stood in the marked location and viewed the image straight on, she experienced the same moment of realization many students had.
Caitlin Austin, freshman English and creative writing double major, also described her initial confusion before recognizing the image.
“I didn’t know they were painting a mural… but it’s actually really cool to see the perspective of how when you look at it just walking, it doesn’t look like anything. Then when you stand on the feet it’s actually a horse,” Austin said.
When asked whether she had seen other students interact with the mural, Austin said she had not noticed it at first.
“I haven’t paid much attention to it, but now that I know it’s here, I’m going to be on the lookout,” Austin said. “Like who’s going to be investigating it now?”
The charger mural was designed to bring joy to students, and it appeared to accomplish that goal. The small “Moments of Delights” sparked curiosity and brought smiles to many students on campus.
