By Janet Cruz

Those who drive by El Camino Way in Lake Havasu City, come across Lake Havasu’s newest 3D mural created by local artist Jaque Meng dubbed “Greetings From Havasu.”

Meng began work on the painting with some metal artwork in her metal shop back in November.  As for painting, she began last December, because of unforeseen weather conditions (much more rain than normal) the project was delayed numerous times, however Meng never lost sight of her project.

Jaque Meng paints a mural in Lake Havasu City, AZ. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene                                                                       Fireworks varying in size and color,  brighten the upper left corner of the building, roughly 16-feet wide in total and extending up 5 feet above the existing building. You also find pictures of  butterflies with a blend of painted and 3D metal butterflies, varying sizes with vibrant colors.

Brad Rice hangs a butterfly on a wall painted by local artist Jaque Meng. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Meng said she made sure to design the metal 3D butterflies mounted in a way so they bounce or “dance” with the wind, almost to create a kinetic experience.

“This is to highlight the butterfly sanctuary in Havasu. My intention was to create an interactive space for photo ops that was inviting, energetic, kinetic, and safe for visitors, which would also withstand the elements of the area with little to no maintenance,” Meng said.

Fireworks built by Jaque Meng hang on the wall outside of Bridge Body Fitness. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Jacque Meng has been creating art for more than 20 years, and has lived in Lake Havasu for more than 10 years and also owns the art gallery the “Q” in Downtown McCulloch.

Meng completed her Bachelors of Fine Arts at Eastern Washington University. She studied built environment, conceptual design focusing on public art and ceramics.

“I began collaborating with my mentor and professor, Tom Askman, while at university and had some of my first large projects around the country. I did not begin physically fabricating the artwork seen today (in Lake Havasu) until after completing my degree,” Meng said.

Jaque Meng paints a mural on the wall of Bridge Body Fitness. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

As for the mural, the project was made possible after Meng submitted a proposal to the Havasu Area Public Art Association (HAPA).

HAPA is a local nonprofit which has commissioned mostly murals, whose mission is to bring art to the city through wall murals, sculptures and art inspired events.  This  piece is actually Meng’s  second mural with HAPA.

“The first one I created was the “Share The Road” mural  which also has 3D metal pieces and a large painting seen in Lake Havasu City,” said Meng.

As for the one on El Camino Way, the owner of the building wanted a “WOW” mural that was a photo op, inspired by a retro post card feel, so Meng sent in her proposal and HAPA and the buildings owner “Tricia” approved her concept. From there, Meng worked closely with Tricia to make any changes and finalize the design, color scheme and layout.

Brad Rice hangs a butterfly on a wall painted by local artist Jaque Meng. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Aside from the 3D Metal fireworks and butterflies, Meng plans to add a large 3D fishing pole that a viewer can hold onto and mimic reeling in the 3D metal fish, on the other end of the mural.  The fishing line will  twist, up  around the mural to give it a fun feel within the large space.

“My favorite part of this mural is the installation of the metal artwork and the painted mountains. I mainly love seeing everyone’s positive reaction with the progress. “It feels good to see their smiles. I have taken lots of photos for others under the sign this past week, which is very exciting,” Meng said.

The “Greetings From Lake Havasu” mural is on display  at 375 El Camino Way in Lake Havasu City on the side of the Bridge Body Fitness building.

Jaque Meng paints a Lake Havasu City mural on the side of the Bridge Body Fitness  building. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene