The Nat unveils colorful Atrium mural ahead of 150th anniversary

The artwork by local artist Eva Struble is inspired by the rich biodiversity of San Diego County and Baja California.

SD San Diego Natural History Museum Atrium Art

Eva Struble’s “Frasera” mural spans three stories in inside The Nat’s atrium — right behind “Allie.”

The San Diego Natural History Museum, aka The Nat, has added a little something to its Atrium: “Frasera,” a 33-ft mural created by local artist and SDSU professor Eva Struble.

Now, when visitors walk into the north entrance, they’ll see Struble’s artwork soaring three stories high at the museum’s center, where it’ll remain on display through 2024.

SD San Diego Natural History Museum Atrium Art Eva Struble

Artist Eva Struble said parts of her mural were inspired by Iron Mountain, an area where she loves to hike.

Assisted by muralist Jonny Pucci, Struble has been working on the mural for weeks. It’s inspired by specimens in The Nat’s collection and the rich biodiversity of San Diego County and Baja California, including Iron Mountain and the Pacific Ocean.

The Atrium refresh is part of The Nat’s plan to debut more visitor amenities as it prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary next year (fun fact: It was founded by amateur naturalists way back in 1874). A new welcome desk and guest seating will be installed in the space in early 2024.

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