One thing that makes Town and Country so unique is a deep-seated devotion to its mid-century modern roots and a playful celebration of San Diego lifestyle – past, present and future. One place this blending of old and new, looking back and moving forward, is evident, is the resort’s art collection.
By Andy Davis
Renowned surf artist Andy Davis has been a fixture in California’s surf art scene for over two decades. A North County San Diego native and avid surfer, he draws inspiration from the ocean, creating vibrant, free-flowing designs. His work—found in murals, private collections, and films—features soothing coastal colors and faceless, minimalist figures that embody a laid-back spirit. Andy has collaborated with surf icons like Rob Machado, Billabong, and Roxy, and now his art brings a touch of effortless cool to Town and Country Resort.
LOCATION: Lobby fireplace, Palm Tower south wall, The MRKT, and guest rooms.
By Jay Guerra
Get ready to step into a time machine of color, creativity, and pure retro magic! San Diego native Jay Guerra, the visionary behind Guerra Design Company, brings a bold and playful splash of the '60s to life with Groove On. Inspired by Town and Country Resort’s rich history, this vibrant mural pays homage to the resort’s iconic past while keeping the good vibes rolling into the present. Think flower power and a whole lot of groovy energy—because some eras are just too good to leave behind.
LOCATION: Happy Camper Wall
After sunset, look up at Lapper Sports Bar + Kitchen to spot Thelma, the neon diver. Inspired by Olympic bronze medalist Thelma Payne, her flawless form caught the eye of Jantzen Swimwear, making her the face of their 1950s ads. Her image soon appeared on car decals, hood ornaments, and motel signs, including one in Mississippi, where she first lit up in neon. Though that motel is long gone, Thelma’s glow lives on in places like the Museum of Neon Art in Glendale—and now, diving gracefully atop Lapper. Inside, you’ll also find vintage Jantzen ads featuring Thelma in her signature red swimsuit.
LOCATION: Atop Lapper Sports Bar + Kitchen
By Nan Coffey
San Diego-based contemporary artist Nan Coffey uses her distinctive style to celebrate connectivity, inclusion, and love. Her art breaks down walls rather than building them, creating a sense of unity and joy. With a whimsical take on flamingos and monkeys with cocktails, Nan’s work is designed to spark conversations and bring a smile to your face.
LOCATION: Monkey Bar tables and Flamingo Lawn.
Restoration by Nancy Butner
Designed in Italy and installed in 1969, Town and Country’s two stunning foyer mosaics capture San Diego’s history, from Cabrillo’s 1542 landing to its aerospace and fishing boom. Crafted from thousands of Venetian glass tiles, these 18-by-18-foot murals have been recently restored to their original brilliance. Take a closer look—you might spot the 1960s skyline, Palomar Observatory, or a tribute to the San Diego Zoo.
LOCATION: Town and Country Resort Convention Center Lobby
By Mark Warren Jacques
It’s hard to miss the large, vibrant mural adjacent to the resort’s lobby. Stretching 40 feet across and depicting the sun setting (or, is it rising?) over the ocean, the mural is a contrast between the flowing, curved, almost meditative movement of the waves and sea and the hard, geometric lines portraying the sun’s rays. Like the Town and Country Resort, the mural is quintessentially San Diego with a mid-century modern vibe.
LOCATION: To the west of the lobby entrance.
By Mitchell King
A life-long surfer, born and raised in Oceanside, Mitchell King attributes the psychedelic nature of his paintings to the influence of his father’s wild aboriginal-style paintings and many visits to the modern art museum in La Jolla during his youth. He began drawing in high school with cartoons and other self-described “weird little paintings.” Mitchell now derives the inspiration for his fluid, circular, swirling patterns from nature, at times mimicking the cycles of the tides.
LOCATION: Lobby
By Jay Guerra
Step back in time at Town and Country’s History Wall, a vibrant tribute to the resort’s legendary past. This engaging display showcases the evolution of the property, from its early days in the 1950s to present day. You’ll discover vintage photos, quirky memorabilia, and fun facts—including the story of Riki Tiki, the resort’s iconic tiki statue that once shot fire from its head. Whether you're a longtime guest or a first-time visitor, the History Wall offers a nostalgic glimpse into the charm and character that have made Town and Country a San Diego icon since 1953.
LOCATION: Palm Room Hallway
By Jay Guerra
Get ready to smile with another brilliant art installation by creative genius Jay Guerra. This eye-catching display features a collection of witty, laugh-out-loud quotes that perfectly capture the playful spirit of Town and Country brand. From cheeky one-liners to clever quips, these quotes are designed to brighten your day and keep the good vibes rolling. Be sure to snap a photo of your favorite and share the fun—don’t forget to tag @TownCountrySD
LOCATION: First floor of Palm Tower
By Christine Brailsford Caro [Furrow Surf Craft]
Surfboard shaper, wood carver, sculptor, and children’s book illustrator, Christine Brailsford Caro lives in Leucadia, where she divides her time between surfing and her artistic passions. A graduate of the Laguna College of Art and Design, Caro sees the interwoven lines in her wood carvings as the life experiences we all have, some small, some large, some more significant than others, but one building upon the other to create who we are. For her, “It’s kind of like these pathways that combine to create the bigger picture” of where we’re going with our life.
LOCATION: ARLO
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