Artistic Vision with a Purpose
Juan Navarro, a passionate muralist driven by his Mexican-American heritage, is fervently on a mission to bring art to the masses. With every stroke of his paintbrush, he leaves a captivating mark on diverse communities and organizations.
One such remarkable partnership has emerged with Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), a not-for-profit health organization based in Rancho Cucamonga.
Their unwavering dedication extends to serving 1.6 million members across San Bernardino and Riverside counties, all the while inspiring the human spirit with their healing mission.
Celebrating the Tapestry of Inland Empire
Navarro’s collaboration with IEHP is set to produce a series of vibrant, full-scale murals that beautifully pay homage to the unique tapestry of the Inland Empire.
Moreover, the first mural, currently in progress, adorns the central atrium of IEHP’s headquarters, warmly welcoming hundreds of visitors daily.
Navarro explained,
“I wanted to create something that people would gaze at and feel a sense of wonder. We considered various themes, but an homage to a tree-lined street in Riverside resonated best with the space, focusing on the regions IEHP diligently serves across Riverside and San Bernardino counties.”
A Re-Branding Project with Purpose
This artistic collaboration plays a pivotal role in IEHP’s comprehensive re-branding project, which was initiated in 2022. The organization diligently sought artists through a public procurement process, inviting them to submit proposals for potential artwork.
Navarro’s deep connection to the area and his reputation as a young, esteemed Latino leader made him stand out, placing him at the forefront of the selection process.
Currently, discussions are underway to incorporate Navarro’s art into various IEHP-branded materials for future use, ensuring his creative contributions leave a lasting impact on the organization’s identity.
Art Inspiring the Human Spirit
Yahya Dawood, IEHP’s Director of Brand Design and Experience, emphasized the profound impact of art in one’s surroundings, saying,
“In many ways, our rebranding journey culminates with these beautiful murals in IEHP’s atrium space. Now, our team members and visitors will be greeted – and hopefully, inspired – by these colorful scenes of the places we know and the people whom we wholeheartedly serve in the Inland Empire.”
Empowering the Next Generation
Navarro’s artistic vision goes beyond creating murals; moreover, he aspires to empower the next generation of artists, encouraging them to share their own stories through their chosen medium.
Additionally, his own journey, growing up with limited resources as the child of an immigrant mother seeking a better life in the United States, has fueled his passion to uplift others facing similar challenges.
Navarro said,
“Being a ‘full-time artist’ coming from space with little hope brings me immense joy. This opportunity that’s not available to everyone fills me with gratitude”
“I want to inspire others born with fewer resources to realize that there’s always a path to growth when you dedicate your heart to something. Art is a luxury that enriches the human experience.”
About Juan Navarro
A Respected Voice in the Community
As the artist-in-residence at the Riverside Art Museum, Juan Navarro’s artistic endeavors reach beyond individual pieces. He collaborates with local groups, creating informed, collaborative, and relevant public art for specific neighborhoods and initiatives.
Displaying over 15 public works in Riverside and serving as the owner and operator of Eastside Arthouse, Navarro’s artistic influence spans throughout the community.
Recently, he received a prestigious National Medal at The White House, acknowledging his contributions as a recipient of the Riverside Art Museum for Library and Museum Service.
About Inland Empire Health Plan
Healing and Inspiring Communities
Inland Empire Health Plan: A Renowned Organization on a Mission to Heal and Inspire the Human Spirit.
As one of the top 10 largest Medicaid health plans and the largest not-for-profit Medicare-Medicaid plan in the nation, IEHP has been steadfastly committed to serving over 1.6 million residents of Riverside and San Bernardino counties for 27 years.
With an extensive network of 7,000 providers and 3,000 dedicated team members, IEHP shares a vision of ensuring optimal care and vibrant health for all in the community.
Sources: THX News & Inland Empire Health Plan.
