Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Mesa’s Asian District has unveiled its fifth cultural mural at Mekong Plaza at the southwest corner of Main Street and Dobson Road.
Local artist Shela Yu created the new mural, “Jewel of Balance,” featuring a striking dragon named Drina, symbolizing power, strength, and good luck. As a symbol of unity and resilience, the dragon highlights the district’s cultural diversity and the deep-rooted traditions of Asian communities in Mesa.
In addition to the mural, the Asian District will host an Indonesian Cultural Night on Saturday, Oct. 12, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Mekong Palace Restaurant, 66 S. Dobson Road, Ste. 120. The event features an eight-course dinner, traditional live music, and performances, including Pencak Silat and Balinese dance. Special guest H.E. Ida Bagus Made Bimantara, Charge d’Affaires of Indonesia in Washington, D.C., will share insights into the rich traditions and heritage of Indonesia.
Born and raised in Mesa, mural artist Shela Yu has witnessed the growth and evolution of the Asian District firsthand.
“Painting this dragon mural at Mekong Plaza feels different because I’m sharing my culture with the very community where I grew up,” said Ms. Yu.
Her concept for “Jewel of Balance” draws from the richness of East Asian traditions blended with modern elements to reflect the unique cultural heritage thriving in Mesa.
“The Asian District offers a profound sense of belonging for Asian Americans in the Phoenix area,” Ms. Yu added.
The mural is located on the south wall of Mekong Plaza, 66 S. Dobson Road, and invites visitors to engage with both the artwork and the stories it represents. The detailed dragon, set against a mountainous landscape, embodies balance and good fortune — key values in many Asian cultures. Through vibrant public artworks like this, Ms. Yu is dedicated to amplifying Asian American voices and celebrating the diversity that defines Mesa’s Asian District.
According to city officials, Mesa’s Asian District has grown organically, with the main core of Asian businesses located along Dobson Road between Main Street and Broadway Road. Additionally, clusters of Asian businesses can be found near Mesa Community College on Southern Road near Dobson, and in Three Fountains Plaza on Longmore Road, close to the former Fiesta Mall.
Visitors can explore the full collection of murals and learn about the artists who contributed to this cultural tapestry by viewing the mural map available at selectmesa.com/asiandistrict.
