Los Angeles-based artist Robert Vargas is nearing completion of a record-breaking mural in Pershing Square, a operate exceeding 60,000 square feet and poised to be recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest mural created by a single artist.
A Legacy of Public Art
Vargas, a Boyle Heights native who doesn’t recall a time when he wasn’t painting, is celebrated for his murals throughout the city. His work includes the Shohei Ohtani “L.A. Rising” mural featured on the cover of Los Angeles magazine’s December 2025 issue, “Our Lady of DTLA” (2013), “Fernandomania Forever,” and “Nourishing the Community” on the Project Angel Food Vine Street headquarters.
The artist’s contributions to the community were further recognized with the naming of “Robert Vargas Square” in Boyle Heights.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the Pershing Square mural, Vargas has plans for a Dodgers mural in Torrance in 2026 and anticipates travel to Europe and Japan. In 2025, his work included murals created in response to local events, such as “Heroes,” honoring first responders involved in the Eaton fire, and “From the Ashes,” inspired by stories of residents impacted by loss in Altadena.
Vargas explains that public art allows for a different kind of connection, making art accessible to those who may not feel welcome in traditional art spaces and allowing the public to witness the creation process firsthand, “humanizing the built environment.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Robert Vargas currently working on?
Robert Vargas is completing a mural at Pershing Square in Downtown Los Angeles that is expected to be the largest mural by a single artist in the world, as recognized by Guinness World Records.
Where else has Robert Vargas created murals?
Robert Vargas has created murals in Little Tokyo, Boyle Heights, and Altadena, among other locations in Los Angeles, as well as internationally in cities including Paris, London, Venice, Brazil, and Japan.
What is Vargas’ approach to creating public art?
Vargas believes public art should be accessible to everyone and emphasizes a process that allows the community to witness the work firsthand, fostering a sense of connection and participation.
What role does public art play in fostering community connection and accessibility?
