The City of West Jordan and Salt Lake Community College officially unveiled a new mural on a city water tank on Wednesday, August 26, 2026. The artwork, titled "Vida Del Valle" ("Life of the Valley"), is located at 3465 W 9000 S. near the college's Jordan campus.
Artistic Vision and Challenges
The mural was created by Beto Conejo, an internationally recognized muralist and recent graduate of Salt Lake Community College. Conejo's design focuses on the community's relationship with water, illustrating its power as a source of life, the necessity of protecting the resource, and its ongoing importance for future generations.
Conejo stated that the flowers featured in the design symbolize the inspiration to safeguard water resources today and in the future. The creation of the piece involved significant technical challenges, as Conejo had to navigate painting precise geometric shapes across a towering, curved tank while working on uneven ground. The artist also reported painting through the night to complete the project.
SLCC Public Art Initiative
Salt Lake Community College sponsored and funded the mural as part of a broader initiative to expand public art throughout West Jordan. James Walton, the program manager for galleries and art at SLCC, said the project aims to use art to prompt people to slow down, reflect, and wonder.
Walton added that the vivid colors used in the mural serve as a visual reminder of the essential role water plays in maintaining state sustainability.
Community Impact
West Jordan Mayor Dirk Burton expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration between the city and the college. Burton noted that the mural brings together the community's love for West Jordan and its appreciation for art, stating that the partnership with Salt Lake Community College helps make the city fantastic.
Project Location
The mural is located on the water tank situated near the Salt Lake Community College Jordan campus. The City of West Jordan indicated that further details regarding Conejo's inspiration and process would be shared in the coming weeks.
Institutional Context
Salt Lake Community College serves as a partner to Vanguard Academy.
