How much more can a beloved tribute endure before it’s moved beyond public reach?
The iconic Kobe and Gigi Bryant DTLA mural, a cherished symbol of loss and legacy, has been vandalized once again, just days after being lovingly restored from a previous attack. This repeated desecration leaves the Los Angeles community questioning why this sacred street art continues to be a target.
The latest act of Kobe Gigi mural vandalism occurred on June 4, 2025, at the mural’s downtown Los Angeles location on 1361 Main St. The artwork was defaced with white spray paint, obscuring portions of the powerful image. This incident happened a mere four days after the mural, which depicts Kobe Bryant holding and kissing his daughter Gigi, was painstakingly restored following an earlier act of vandalism in late April 2025.
Created by artist Louie “Sloe” Motion (Palsino) shortly after the tragic helicopter crash on January 26, 2020, that claimed the lives of Kobe, Gigi, and seven others, the mural quickly became a poignant landmark. It shows Kobe in his Lakers uniform, with Gigi holding a basketball, underscored by the words “Mambas Forever” in purple and gold. This mural is more than just paint on a wall; it’s a profound cultural statement, symbolizing Kobe Bryant’s enduring legacy and his inspiration to youth. Its significance was even highlighted in a Super Bowl LVI commercial where Vanessa Bryant, Kobe’s widow, spoke about Los Angeles as a city of icons, with the mural prominently displayed. Even NBA star Luka Doncic recognized its importance, donating $5,000 to the restoration efforts after the first instance of mural vandalism this year.
The pattern of attacks in 2025 has been troubling. In late April, the DTLA mural was covered with graffiti, prompting a community-driven GoFundMe to fund its restoration, which was completed by May 30. However, the subsequent defacement on June 4 has sparked conversations about relocating the artwork to a more secure setting.
The exact motivations behind the repeated vandalism remain unclear, but speculation points to several factors. Some suggest a feud between rival street artists might be at play, using the prominent Kobe Bryant mural as a canvas for their disputes. Another significant factor appears to be the mural’s current location, which may suffer from insufficient surveillance, making it an easy target for those seeking to cause damage. Sloe Motions, the artist, has voiced profound frustration, stating his fear that these acts are disrespectful to Los Angeles and to Vanessa Bryant, tarnishing Kobe’s revered legacy.
In response, Sloe Motions has announced plans to move the piece to a new, more secure location with better surveillance and public viewing. This move aims to ensure the “Mambas Forever” mural can continue to inspire without constant threat. The community has expressed widespread outrage on social media, with many calling for greater protection for public art that holds such deep emotional value. Luka Doncic’s prompt financial support after the first incident underscored the mural’s importance to the Lakers organization and the city’s collective memory.
