Community artist Bryan Snyder (@snyderart) has transformed the public art scene in Carlsbad at large with his implementation of both colorful concepts and progressive ideas at the heart of it all. Now, he works to open up the eclectic Alley Art Wall project to the public as a permanent, collaborative effort for Carlsbad Village. 

“I really hope the community enjoys this vision I’ve had and that the community sees all the diversity of each artist and each mural as something that provides inspiration to facilitate their passion and interest in art themselves,” Snyder said.  

The project has progressed rapidly with each day, prompting Snyder to consider plans for a public opening. He aims to not only fulfill a schedule of remaining artists to paint but to visually recognize local supporters of the art wall’s vision. 

The building that was once Cafe Ground Up has also become home to the Alley Art Wall. Building owner Gaetano Cicciotti, well-regarded for his authentic Italian food, has been a prime supporter of the project’s vision. Snyder hopes to coincide the art wall’s opening with Cicciotti’s restaurant plans for the currently-vacant space. 

“I think it will be great for my business and great for the village,” Cicciotti said. “It attracts a lot of people. There are people coming into town just to take a picture with the wall in the back.” 

Snyder credits the driving force behind the project’s initiative to local support and input. From the partnership of The Boys and Girls Club to the input of fellow muralists, this has reinforced the meaning of collaboration for the Alley Art Wall. Snyder credits the finalized plans to the insight of three local muralists in particular: Sean Dominguez (@artbydomo), Skye Walker (@skyewalker_art) and Taylor Gallegos (@taylorgallegosart). 

“There is an amazing cast of artists and I’m honored to be in this group of people,” Gallegos said. “The more the community feels the energy behind this and enjoys it and shares it, the better it is… I feel that Carlsbad has this emerging mural element that Bryan Snyder started like ten years ago and really it’s picking up speed and is being embraced by the community and I’m really happy to be a part of that.”

An outburst of support for Snyder’s project is not only fueled by its crucial role in Carlsbad’s culture; the community artist has made a name for himself as a reputable, well-respected muralist that many Carlsbad business owners, like Cicciotti, have come to trust. 

“He’s a great guy, very easy to work with, very accomplished too,” Cicciotti adds. “If you walk by the alley to see the wall, it’s not done yet, but it’s already gorgeous.” 

The remaining space above Snyder’s infamous “Doodle’s Umbrella” installation has prompted Snyder to make plans to paint himself. The intent behind his contribution is clear: to keep the spotlight on Doodle.

“I want to keep somewhat of a simple background that allows him to stand out and remain in the foreground but still make it interesting and exciting.”  

In January of 2022, Snyder looks forward to hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony that encourages expressive ideas and Carlsbad culture. 

“I’ve already mentioned to all of the artists that I’d love for them to be there during [the ribbon-cutting ceremony], so there’s a good chance that when we do that, we will have 17 artists here to share their experience, engage in conversation with the community, and obviously, everyone will be invited,” Snyder said. “I hope to cut the ribbon and at that point, we start painting on that space and interact with the artists and go around the corner and check out that new restaurant.” 

Upcoming plans for the art wall will achieve the ultimate goal of becoming a public forum for interested artists of all ages and backgrounds. Snyder has stood witness to a noticeable amount of positive feedback so far. He eagerly anticipates the final product and maintains the belief that there is an entire community behind the Alley Art Wall to thank. 

“When you have 17 murals, with all various techniques and styles, it’s almost impossible to not become inspired,” Snyder said. “It’s really been a team effort… From start to finish, there are so many people involved.”

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