Live Well, Be Well

A bright and colorful mural greets visitors at the entrance to the North facing Kaiser Permanente Medical Offices, 7601 Stoneridge Drive, Pleasanton. Clasped entwined hands offer a central message to make healthy lifestyle choices and live well. Painted on four 4’x7’wood panels mounted on the entrance wall, the mural encourages visitors to incorporate healthy activity and nutritious food as part of thriving in Pleasanton.

A sun-hatted woman gardens among flowers and abundant trees. Medical research has uncovered many benefits of outside activities including the effect of foliage in lowering blood pressure.  Kaiser Permanente has created a small park opposite the mural to sit and ponder or maybe play a three-hole putting green.

Below the woman, a panel shows a tumble of healthy produce – apple, lettuce, melon, kale, peppers, tomatoes, kiwi, bananas, and a hiding carrot. Look closely and you may discover more than this list. Perhaps this produce will find a place on your table soon?

The iconic Pleasanton arch on Main Street is bathed in a golden sunset illuminating the Museum on Main.  A reminder that mental health is also important. Each day includes the possibility to learn and expand stimulation.  Perhaps you can choose to visit the Museum on Main and enjoy the permanent exhibit on the history of Pleasanton inclusive of the Ohlone peoples, both past and present. Stop by the Harrington Gallery in the Firehouse Arts Center to view the newest exhibit.

Pleasanton has many activities for families. The next two panels continue the story. The smiling boy pulling two balloons in a breeze is running in Pleasanton Park.  He reminds us of childhood joy and the exhilaration of participation. Let a small breeze fill your heart with anticipation!  Maybe the last panel is your choice.  You might prefer a quiet walk near Lake Del Valle at sunset.  In any event, nature awaits you. Get out and discover!

Artist Mark Shawver invites all viewers to “discover the lush beauty of the world and enjoy the simple wonders of existence.”  Shawver studied graphic design at San Jose State from 1975-78. He retired from his Pleasanton graphic art business in 2011 but continued to regularly enter juried painting exhibitions. He was commissioned by Kaiser Permanente in 2018 to complete the Live Well, Be Well mural after winning the nod over 47 artists. Mark currently lives in Eagle, Idaho.

 Jan Coleman-Knight