Mystic Oasis

The Mystic Oasis mural wraps a large nested box, anchoring the reception area at NBBJ’s Los Angeles office.

Centered on themes of place, the artwork reimagines territorial landforms and native flora as they intersect with the built environment, with natural forms overtaking and softening constructed surfaces. Curious eyes peer through the dense flora, evoking a sense of discovery, searching, and exploration.

The imagery draws from Southern California desert landscapes, incorporating abstracted references to native plants such as prickly pear, agave, and other regional species. A muted desert-inspired palette, punctuated by vibrant accents, creates visual contrast while complementing the design vision for the reception area remodel. The mural was developed as part of a broader NBBJ initiative to cultivate a welcoming and collaborative environment.

The creation of Mystic Oasis was intentionally participatory. NBBJ employees were invited to contribute through guided fill areas, fostering a sense of ownership and camaraderie through a playful, hands-on process that resulted in paint-splattered work attire and even a memorable streak of color in a participant’s hair.

Created in conjunction with Art Swagger, a portion of the mural was painted live during the fundraising event, offering guests an inside look at the mural-making process and an opportunity to engage directly with the artist.

NBBJ, Los Angeles, 2025.

Mural Commission