Jon StojanSummary: Muralist Ian Robertson-Salt, a Los Angeles native, has been creating vibrant murals that explore themes of culture, identity, and ecological awareness.
Street artists are freethinkers, disruptors, and risk-takers. They inhabit the spaces we live, work in, and play in, bringing life back to an otherwise mundane urban environment. This is true, especially in Los Angeles. In this vibrant tapestry of Los Angeles’ artistic landscape, Ian Robertson-Salt, a painter and a muralist seamlessly blends in.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, Ian began his muralist journey in 2011 and discovered his purpose in preserving murals across Los Angeles and Long Beach. A tribute to his passion, he studied color theory, public art engagement, and various techniques to cultivate a deep understanding of the intricate relationship between art and its surroundings.
“The Artist” Mural Painting by Ian Robertson-Salt
In addition to creating stunning murals, Ian has worked on the restoration of damaged and historic murals across LA. Having actively managed mural programs for children and volunteers, Ian sees the value of community engagement through art. As Ian shares, “I hope my work inspires people to question their surroundings and how our society interacts with the natural and manmade environments.” The artist’s introspective style is evident in his composition-oriented pieces, which blend realistic images with vibrant colors and dynamic geometric shapes.
His process generally starts with a theme, using digital compositions through various techniques and processes. Ian’s murals are a visual symphony that resonates with the unique history of Los Angeles, embodying the identity and values of the spaces they adorn. He started working in this style in 2016, and it’s evolved into a more condensed process with single figures, conveying powerful messages through multiple layers of composition. His works, often inspired by the urban environment, maps, and graffiti, transcend mere visuals, becoming conduits for societal reflection.
Ian’s journey reached a poignant pinnacle when commissioned by the LA County Arts Commission to create “In Their Hands” for the public defender’s office. The painting encapsulates the emotions of navigating the criminal justice system, embodying the resilience of those who fight for justice.
Ian Robertson-Salt’s “In Their Hands,” a depiction of a defendant in the center
Reflecting on this moment, Ian expresses gratitude for the flawed yet resourceful judicial system, reaffirming the importance of art in challenging societal narratives, stating, “I am grateful to have come from a place where people have the resources to prove their innocence, fight for their rights, and have some recourse in determining their future even after committing grave mistakes.”
With 34 murals under his belt, Ian envisions painting in different parts of the world and dreams of having his work displayed in museums. His commitment to exploring the unknown with curiosity and understanding remains at the forefront of his artistic aspirations.
Ian highlights the importance of art in reflecting society, allowing it to ask questions, evoke emotions, and share histories. “Public art can change our interactions with the environment.” It becomes an integral part of people’s lives, reflecting the values of the community it serves.