Hermosillo, Sonora - A public mural project in Hermosillo took an unexpected turn on July 29, 2025, when members of a local art group, part of the Hermosillo artist collective, reported the theft of key equipment. The Ojo de Zánate collective, known for its community-oriented visual storytelling, was in the midst of painting a large mural focused on biodiversity. It was during this time that three aluminum ladders were stolen from the work site overnight.
The mural, located on Boulevard Morelos, was meant to depict native flora and fauna while encouraging environmental awareness among Hermosillo residents. The project was being painted directly on a public wall to make it accessible to the community. However, it was also vulnerable to interference.
“We were halfway through the wall and returned the next morning to find all of our ladders gone,” the group wrote in a social media post. “This slows us down, but it won’t stop us.”
The incident is a setback for the group, which funds most of its projects through donations and small grants. Ladders and painting tools are essential for scaling the wall and completing high-detail work. The collective has asked the public for support and donations to help replace the stolen gear.
Community reacts with support and concern
News of the theft spread quickly online, generating sympathy and offers of help from Hermosillo’s cultural community. Residents expressed frustration that a group trying to contribute something positive to the city was targeted in this way.
Several commenters noted the lack of security in public spaces overnight. They called on municipal authorities to do more to protect civic art initiatives. Others suggested nearby surveillance cameras may help identify the perpetrators.
Police have opened an investigation but as of publication had not released additional details. Officers noted that the theft likely occurred during off-hours. They stated that the items may have been taken for resale rather than vandalism.
According to the collective, the ladders were visible from the street and leaned against the wall when they left the night before. “It was an open, visible space. We honestly thought people would respect the project,” one member told local press.
A broader vision despite the setback
The biodiversity mural is one of several recent art initiatives in Hermosillo aimed at transforming blank city walls into educational and inspiring public works. The Ojo de Zánate group has focused on themes like environmental justice, native species, and water conservation. These are all central concerns in Sonora’s arid climate.
While the stolen equipment delays the project, the group remains committed to finishing the work. “Art shouldn’t be this hard to protect,” one member said. “But we’re not giving up.”
The theft is a reminder of the challenges faced by grassroots cultural groups trying to build something meaningful in public spaces. It also highlights the need for stronger institutional support for local art.
