In a disappointing turn of events, a stunning mural honoring the late Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna — both tragically lost in a helicopter crash in 2020 — has become the focal point of an ongoing feud between street artists in Los Angeles. This mural, a vibrant tribute celebrating the legacy of the Lakers legend, has fallen victim to repeated vandalism, believed to stem from disputes between its artist, Sloe Motions, and another artist.
Luka Doncic, the Dallas Mavericks superstar, has stepped in to show his support by contributing $5,000 towards the mural’s restoration. His generous gesture underscores the significant impact Bryant had not only on basketball but on the community at large. Sloe Motions expressed heartfelt gratitude on social media, emphasizing the communal spirit that emerged from this challenging situation. “Fully restored Kobe and Gigi mural with graffiti protection all thanks to @lukadoncic and everyone who donated to the GoFundMe. It’s great how a bad situation can bring so many people together to bring something back greater. I really felt the LOS ANGELES love on this one,” he shared, showcasing the strength of community support.
Despite these efforts, the mural was vandalized again on Tuesday night, leading Sloe Motions to consider relocating the tribute entirely. According to reports, he’s now on the hunt for a new site where he can recreate this homage without fear of further damage. “Unfortunately, now that it’s happened again, Sloe Motions says he’s looking for a new spot to paint the mural,” stated a source.
The mural is part of a broader wave of art dedicated to Kobe, illustrating the profound influence he continues to wield globally. As reported by KobeMural.com, there are over 650 murals celebrating the Black Mamba around the world, with a significant concentration in Southern California, where 345 out of 468 in the United States are located. His legacy carries across 45 countries and six continents, highlighting his status as a truly global icon.
It’s bittersweet to witness a rivalry among artists overshadowing a tribute meant to preserve Kobe Bryant’s memory and celebrate his impact on countless lives. As the community rallies in support of Sloe Motions and his art, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring love for Kobe, even amidst adversity.
