See The Skinny later this week for more details regarding the notice of violation given to the Rialto Theatre by the city of Tucson regarding the murals that promote concerts at the venue.

A press release today from the Rialto Theatre Foundation explains Joe Pagac's new mural:

RIALTO THEATRE RESPONDS TO SIGN CODE VIOLATION REGARDING ITS MURALS … BY PAINTING A NEW MURAL

The not-for-profit Rialto Theatre Foundation was served with a Notice of Violation from the City of Tucson a couple weeks ago regarding its rotating murals on the east side of the Theatre building. According to the notice, the Theatre’s murals, rather than being considered artwork, were cited as “signs without a permit.” The Theatre had been rotating two different murals promoting upcoming shows since last September with no complaints. While the Theatre Foundation considers its options regarding seeking a variance by appealing to the Sign Code Advisory Board, the Foundation directed its talented serial muralist, Joe Pagac, to paint a mural celebrating the Rialto Theatre’s 90 years of contributions to Tucson’s cultural history and the free expression of ideas. The historic Theatre first opened for business in August 1920. The new mural contains no commercial information and is therefore not bound by the sign code.

“The new mural is, in part, an exuberant celebration of the Rialto Theatre’s ninety-year history as the ‘people’s Theatre,’ ” said Executive Director Douglas Biggers. “The Rialto Theatre is owned by the community and the Rialto Theatre Foundation is honored to be the steward of this important public asset.”

“The new mural also speaks to the importance of free expression as part of our cultural mission. We hope to get our rotating murals back in action soon,” said Biggers. “In the meantime, we hope the community enjoys the brilliant work of Joe Pagac.”