Renowned LA Artist Robert Vargas’ Latest Mural unveiling in Torrance
Published on September 03, 2026
Entitled “The Storm is Coming,” Vargas’ 12-story work on the north side of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Torrance – South Bay stands just off Hawthorne Blvd. near the Del Amo Fashion Center
Quarterback Justin Herbert and Safety Derwin James, Los Angeles Chargers team captains and Pro Bowlers, are now even larger than life after it was announced today that Robert Vargas’ newest jaw-dropping mural is set to be unveiled on Tuesday, September 8 in the city of Torrance.
“The Storm is Coming,” a 12-story mural on the north side of the DoubleTree Hotel in Torrance, joins Vargas’ ‘Samurai of the Diamond’ mural of Shohei Ohtani on the south side of the same building. Forming one of the largest scale art installations in all of Los Angeles County, both murals occupy a stretch of Hawthorne Blvd. that receives 70,000 vehicle trips per day – or roughly 25.5 million vehicle trips annually.
“Robert Vargas will once again transform the Torrance skyline with a remarkable work of public art that captures the energy, determination and excitement of the Los Angeles Chargers,” said Torrance Mayor Sharon Kalani. “We are proud that Torrance can serve as the canvas for a mural of this scale and significance, bringing together art and sports in a way that creates excitement for our community and welcomes fans and visitors to experience our city. “The Storm is Coming” is an incredible addition to Torrance, and we are grateful to Robert, the Chargers, DoubleTree by Hilton Torrance South Bay and Discover Torrance for helping bring this vision to life.”
Designed and painted freehand by the acclaimed Los Angeles native, “The Storm is Coming” adds to Vargas’ extensive catalogue of high-profile murals across Los Angeles including “L.A. Rising” on the side of the Miyako Hotel in Little Tokyo, “Our Lady of DTLA” on the corner of Spring and Sixth Streets, “Fernandomania Forever” in Boyle Heights near Mariachi Plaza, “Angelus” at Pershing Square, “Nourishing the Community” on the Project Angel Food Vine Street headquarters and “From the Ashes” on Fair Oaks Burger in Altadena.
"Art has the power to connect people and spark meaningful conversations," says Vargas. "I aim to depict Justin and Derwin in a way that truly celebrates teamwork, diversity, and bridges communities. This moment reflects a great time to be not just a sports fan in LA, but a Chargers fan. Both Justin and Derwin exemplify leadership, serving as role models in their teams and the community, inspiring others through their dedication and commitment."
Across Los Angeles, murals by Vargas have quickly evolved into public landmarks. As such, Vargas has achieved favorite son status, and then some. In 2021, the Los Angeles City Council proclaimed September 8 as Robert Vargas Day in the City of Los Angeles. A year later the City Council designated an intersection in Boyle Heights as Robert Vargas Square and, this past year, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors proclaimed January 24 as Robert Vargas Day in Los Angeles County.
“Robert’s murals are iconic, and to be included in his incredible portfolio of work is an honor,” said Chargers Sr. Vice President of Brand Marketing & Creative Jason Lavine. “Seeing this shared vision with Robert, the city of Torrance, Mayor Kalani and our team here at the Chargers come to life, while also knowing what this confluence of art and sport will bring to our community, has been extremely rewarding.”
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