Jensen Hasburgh Contributes to Sayulita’s Los Muertos Archway 

If you’ve been to Playa Los Muertos in Sayulita recently, you’ve probably noticed the beautiful new mural that is painted on the archway as you enter the graveyard and head towards the beach. Created for and inspired by the recent Dia de Muertos Holiday this last November of 2019. The young artist behind the magical creation, Jensen Hasburgh, tells me more about the project, as well as about her art in general here in Sayulita. 

Hi Jensen! First, can you tell readers a bit about yourself?

My name is Jensen Hasburgh. I am 18 years old. My parents have had a house in Sayulita for a long time- before the internet was even around. Thus, I lived in Sayulita from the time I was in 4th grade to secondary school, and then I recently moved to California to complete my high-school. I still come back and visit often, as my parents are still located here in Sayulita. 

What is your background or training in art? When did you first discover it as a passion of yours?

I’ve always loved to paint and draw; my mom used to always buy me crafts and art supplies and it was continuously my favorite pastimes growing up. My parents have been a great support in pushing and motivating me to draw more; I definitely go through slumps where I don’t do art as much as I should. This recent project, the painting of the mural on the bridge at Playa Los Muertos for the Dia De Muertos Festival, was the biggest project I’ve ever done. 

Can you talk about the mural you painted at the archway near Playa los Muertos? What was the overall vision or concept for the mural?

I think most importantly, as for everyone who celebrates Día de Muertos, the idea was about celebrating our loved ones who have passed, and trying to express that in a happy and joyful way. I wanted the mural to have a sense of peace to it, hence the choices of colors used and images depicted in the mural.

How would you describe your artistic style? Do you mostly do paintings or murals, or do you venture into other art forms as well?

This was actually my first mural and it was also the first time I used spray paint. I felt way in over my head, because unlike traditional painting on a canvas, the medium of a mural is not something you can just store in your garage and hide from everyone until you feel satisfied with it. There was more pressure with this because I knew I couldn’t just start over if I didn’t like it. I have a horrible habit of making one mistake and then throwing a project away. So, I really had to trust the process (and luckily it’s easy to cover up mistakes with spray paint!) Normally I do acrylic and oil painting on traditional canvas.  

The most important thing I would like to say is how humbled I was to be able to be part of such an incredible and personal holiday. As a foreigner, being invited into such a beautiful local celebration in Sayulita, and being trusted with such a big project felt so amazing. I feel so fortunate to work with such dedicated, committed, and talented people. Belen and her crew whom are responsible for putting on the Dia de Muertos festival each year are amazing! I am very thankful they gave me this opportunity.

*Written by: Aanya Sheikh-Taheri