Get a Fun and Funky History Lesson with a New Mural at The Clarendon Hotel
The Clarendon Hotel and Spa, in the Encanto neighborhood in Phoenix, is getting a local makeover and revamp. Known for its boutique feel and central location, the Clarendon has been a favorite of not only visiting vacationers but of our own Phoenicians looking for a local escape. On top of adding a rooftop bar, they have also added the Lazy Bee Spa and Fuego Bistro , both locally owned businesses. Their glow up is focused on celebrating what makes Phoenix unique and sharing the rich history Arizona has to offer.
New Mural Dedicated to the History of Phoenix
The Clarendon is the setting of several of Arizona’s most exciting moments in history. One such moment has made the Clarendon a historical marker in the world of journalism. In 1976, Don Bolles was investigating Phoenix’s underbelly of organized crime and corruption. His car was parked in the Clarendon lot and when he started the engine he ignited the car bomb hidden within. Bolles has become a figure of integrity, truth, and the Clarendon has his bust as well as photographs of the day of the incident in their lobby.
“Considering the market of who stays at hotels; people visiting, as well as locals looking for a staycation experience, I wanted to provide a guide to downtown as well as a celebratory piece for those who live here.”
This story, along with others of a lost bowling alley underneath one of the ASU parking lots and an abandoned illegal boxing ring at the top of the Luhrs building, were the inspiration for a new mural in the Clarendon lobby. The mural was created by resident artist Steph DaLeigh. DaLeigh put in a month and half of research and 450 hours of drawing freehand to create the historical masterpiece. The mural is a map that covers from Camelback in the north, south to Buckeye, west to 43rd Avenue, and east to 48th street/Arcadia. “My primary goal was to be as inclusive as possible in the expansiveness that is time, as well as giving every section of the map the same amount of attention and detail,” said DaLeigh about the process of creating the map.
The mural connects generations of Phoenicians through history, community, humor, and pop culture. The mural features a section called “Cheers” where DaLeigh says thank you to Phoenix and its community, several celebrity drawings, and even Google reviews. Really, the mural is a love letter to all that makes Phoenix so special.
Get to Know the Artist
DaLeigh is the resident artist at the Clarendon and will be a part of continued art projects, such as murals for the rooms and the parking lot. She will also be a part of some 2021 staycation opportunities like a Paint & Sip, which we are very excited about. For DaLeigh, this mural has been one of her favorite pieces because of the vulnerability required. “I’m such a perfectionist,” says DaLeigh, “and making mistakes on a completely freehanded mural led to some new neurological pathways and connections that I would never have gained or been able to share later. I had to let go of expectations and embrace the process.”
DaLeigh has lived all over but only since coming to Phoenix has she decided to move full time into her art practice. “Phoenix is inspiring because of the people who are here. The fact I can reach out for help or advice is why I love living here. It’s how I’m able to evolve the work that I do.” Working at the Clarendon has provided DaLeigh with an opportunity to do her thing. Her aesthetic and the Clarendon brand have created a really congruent relationship that you can see and feel in the vibe of the hotel. As DaLeigh continues her work, she has been trying to learn more about different people and ideas in order to better who up in the world and for other people. Learn more about Steph DaLeigh and see how her art progresses at her website stephdaleigh.com.