Mural at new Surprise Fry's pays homage to White Tanks
Arizona-based visual artist Ariana Enriquez created a 24-by-8-foot mural at the new Surprise Fry’s Marketplace, drawing inspiration from the White Tank Mountains and the diverse ecosystems that surround them.
Courtesy West Valley Arts Council
Surprise’s newest Fry’s Marketplace store will feature a mural that honors the city’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and forward-looking growth.
“Sunrise in Surprise” will be unveiled when the store at 16371 W. Cactus Road opens to the public on Friday, Oct. 31.
The West Valley Arts Council partnered with Fry’s Food Stores on the 24-by-8-foot mural, which will be prominently displayed inside the new store.
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Mural at new Surprise Fry's pays homage to White Tanks
Courtesy West Valley Arts Council
Arizona-based visual artist Ariana Enriquez created a 24-by-8-foot mural at the new Surprise Fry’s Marketplace, drawing inspiration from the White Tank Mountains and the diverse ecosystems that surround them.
Posted
This store and the mural symbolize the vibrant community spirit we’re so proud to be a part of.”
Monica Garnes | Fry’s Food Stores president
IF YOU GO
What: Fry’s Marketplace grand opening
When: Friday, Oct. 31
Where: 16371 W. Cactus Road
Surprise’s newest Fry’s Marketplace store will feature a mural that honors the city’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and forward-looking growth.
“Sunrise in Surprise” will be unveiled when the store at 16371 W. Cactus Road opens to the public on Friday, Oct. 31.
The West Valley Arts Council partnered with Fry’s Food Stores on the 24-by-8-foot mural, which will be prominently displayed inside the new store.
Arizona-based visual artist Ariana Enriquez created the piece, drawing inspiration from the White Tank Mountains and the diverse ecosystems that surround them. The mural features a mule deer, a symbol of adaptability and resilience — qualities that mirror Surprise’s rapid evolution and vibrant community.
A Costa’s hummingbird flits among brittlebush, chuparosa and hedgehog cactus blooms, representing the region’s thriving biodiversity and over 600 native plant species.
The inclusion of Hohokam and Western Yavapai petroglyphs pays tribute to the area’s ancestral roots, while the depiction of the modern municipal complex reflects the city’s dedication to progress and innovation.
“This mural captures Surprise’s essence — its deep connection to the land, its respect for history, and its exciting momentum toward the future,” said Enriquez, who is based out of Mesa. “Through color and composition, I wanted to show how beauty can be found in the small, everyday details that make this community special.”
Enriquez is known for her hand-painted, nature-inspired works that explore the relationships between people, place, and environment. A graduate of Arizona State University with a BFA in painting and an MA in art history, Enriquez founded her own mural business in 2022 after a decade in museum work. Her art celebrates Arizona’s flora and fauna as metaphors for resilience and renewal.
“We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with Fry’s Food Stores to showcase local artists and celebrate community identity through public art,” said Jimmy Davis, director of programs and administration at the West Valley Arts Council. “Ariana’s work beautifully reflects the spirit of Surprise and the natural landscape that defines the West Valley.”
The new 124,700-square-foot marketplace will feature a wide variety of amenities, including a Starbucks, pharmacy, apparel and housewares departments. A 24-hour fuel center will also open.
“Our friendly associates are excited to connect with our new neighbors in Surprise,” Fry’s President Monica Garnes said. “This store and the mural symbolize the vibrant community spirit we’re so proud to be a part of.”
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