Catnap: The Rainbow Tigers of Carlsbad Village

As you stroll through Carlsbad Village, keep your eyes open—you never know when a splash of color might stop you in your tracks.

On the corner of Carlsbad Boulevard and Grand Avenue, two larger-than-life tigers lounge across the side of a building, inviting everyone who passes by to pause, smile, and wonder what story they’re trying to tell.

This vibrant mural, titled “Catnap,” was painted by Oceanside artist Michael Summers as part of a public art initiative sponsored by New Village Arts. Their vision was simple: place art where people least expect it. Instead of hiding creativity inside galleries, bring it into the streets where it becomes part of everyday life. Every walk through Carlsbad Village becomes a little more colorful, a little more inspiring, and a little more fun.

But look closely at the two tigers, and you’ll notice they’re not the same.

One tiger bursts with every color of the rainbow, embracing transformation and possibility. The other proudly wears traditional tiger stripes, standing firm in what it has always known. Together, they tell a story about one of life’s greatest lessons: change.

The mural was inspired by the quote:

“Change is the essence of life. Be willing to surrender what you are for what you may become.”

Perhaps the rainbow tiger represents the excitement of trying something new—new adventures, new friendships, new experiences. Maybe the striped tiger reminds us that change isn’t always easy. Sometimes we hold tightly to what’s familiar, while others eagerly embrace the unknown.

Artist Michael Summers leaves the interpretation up to you. Is one tiger resisting change while the other happily goes with the flow? Or are they simply reminding us that there’s no single right way to grow?

Like Carlsbad itself, Catnap celebrates individuality, creativity, and the joy of seeing the world from a different perspective.

So as you continue exploring Carlsbad Village, keep looking around. This is just one of many colorful murals tucked throughout downtown. Each one tells a different story, adding another layer to the character and creativity that make Carlsbad such a special place.

Who knows? By the end of your visit, you may discover that the Village has changed you just a little, too.