El Salvador’s Mona Lisa gets a colourful makeover in a 13‑metre mural made from recycled caps
Times of India
by TOI WORLD DESKFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A vibrant new interpretation of the Mona Lisa has emerged in El Salvador, crafted from 100,000 recycled plastic bottle caps. The towering 13-meter mural, designed by Venezuelan artist Óscar Olivares, brings a bold, colorful twist to Leonardo da Vinci's iconic painting, reflecting Latin American culture and identity. Located in Zacamil, a working-class neighborhood of San Salvador, the artwork not only showcases artistic creativity but also highlights the power of community collaboration and environmental sustainability.
The mural, completed by local residents who gathered and prepared the recycled caps over several months, features a striking reinterpretation of the Mona Lisa. Unlike the Renaissance original, this version boasts Latin features, black hair, vibrant clothing, and bold accessories, with a gaze that captures attention while nodding to pointillism techniques inspired by Paul Signac. The project transforms what was once considered trash into a celebrated work of art, emphasizing the potential for recycling to create something meaningful.
Olivares, who has painted murals worldwide, chose Zacamil as the site due to its history of gang activity and the need for a positive transformation. By involving the community in collecting and preparing the caps, the project fostered a sense of unity and pride among residents. The artwork now stands as a symbol of hope and creativity, replacing what was once a backdrop for territorial graffiti with a vibrant, hopeful image.
The mural also serves as a statement about plastic waste, challenging viewers to rethink their relationship with disposable materials. By transforming discarded caps into art, Olivares encourages people to see value in items often dismissed as ordinary trash. This innovative approach not only beautifies the neighborhood but also raises awareness about environmental issues and the importance of sustainable practices.
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and cultural identity, this recycled Mona Lisa offers a powerful example of how art can inspire change. It highlights the potential for communities to come together around shared goals, turning challenges into opportunities for creativity and hope.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/22/2026