Shangri-La East Restaurant, Colorado Springs, CO
SHANGRI-LA
commercial Project • 2019
SHANGRI-LA
A serene Buddha mural at Shangri-La East restaurant in Colorado Springs, blending Eastern philosophy with contemporary street art style. Lotus flowers, bonsai elements, and a tranquil color palette create a meditative atmosphere that transforms the dining experience into something contemplative.
Gallery
Artist's Note
“Restaurants are sensory environments — the food, the music, the light. The art should complete that experience, not compete with it. This Buddha is meant to slow people down, to bring a moment of calm between the appetizer and the entree.”
— Rachel Dinda
Inspiration
Shangri-La East's Asian fusion concept bridging Eastern and Western traditions. The Buddha represents inner peace, but rendered in street art style — a meeting of ancient wisdom and contemporary expression that mirrors the restaurant's culinary approach.
The Process
The challenge was creating tranquility on a wall. I used soft, muted gradients built up in thin layers, avoiding the bold contrasts I typically use. The lotus and bonsai details were painted with small brushes in a style that references traditional Asian ink painting while maintaining my own visual language.
Community Impact
Diners tell the staff the mural sets the mood for their meal. The restaurant has incorporated the aesthetic into their menus and marketing. Several food bloggers have featured the mural in their reviews, noting how it elevates the dining atmosphere.
Project Details
Location
Shangri-La East Restaurant, Colorado Springs, CO
Year
2019
Client
Shangri-La East Restaurant
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