Archive for August 2025

The lighthouse at Fisherman’s Wharf at the Channel Islands Harbor is getting a makeover – and it’s not your run-of-the-mill paint job. Simi Valley native Traci Adams, “The Dream Painter,” is adding to the property’s iconic lighthouse a colorful mural that’s turning heads of passersby.

Her artwork heralds the future redevelopment of Fisherman’s Wharf, recently approved by the California Coastal Commission. German developer and strawberry farmer Robert Dahl, known for Karls Villages in Germany, plans to bring the first U.S. Karls Village to Oxnard, and Adams’ mural brings attention to the project while connecting it to the community. The mural will include Karls signature logo, the words “Eat, Play, Shop,” and wave elements to the base of the tower. Adams said the mural should be complete the first week of September.

Planned elements of the future Karls’ project include a market-style building, restaurants, family entertainment areas, a café and bakery, and recreational amenities that celebrate the region’s maritime and agricultural culture, which include keeping the lighthouse. Next steps for the project include securing building permits through the City of Oxnard and beginning pre-construction work. The project is planned to open in 2028.

Rendering of the Karls project at Fisherman’s Wharf.

Ventura County Harbor Department Director Michael Tripp said he’s happy to see the Karls’ team eager to become a part of the fabric of the Harbor community.

“We’re thrilled to see Robert Dahl and his team moving forward with this project,” Director Tripp stated. “Karls Village promises to bring new energy, creativity, and family-friendly experiences to the Harbor. This mural is the perfect way to celebrate that vision. It also signals Dahl’s commitment to adding to the lively environment of the Harbor.”

About Traci Adams

Adams has worked with school districts, restaurants (locally Eggs N Things and Fire Island Grill), medical facilities, historical parks, and even Warner Bros Studios. Her work turns walls into worlds, creating spaces that feel welcoming, inspiring, and alive.

A Sweet Harbor Connection

Adams’ ties to the Harbor run deep. In 2014, she won the California Strawberry Festival official poster contest – a festival that began at Channel Islands Harbor. Her playful design of strawberries sailing on a “party boat” captured the Harbor’s maritime charm, including the Fisherman’s Wharf lighthouse, and the festival’s spirit, showing her talent for celebrating local culture through art.

Celebrating the Future

Just as her festival artwork honored the Harbor’s past, Adams’ lighthouse artwork promotes its future. By bringing her artistry to Fisherman’s Wharf, she’s helping signal a new chapter where creativity, family fun, and community come together under the vision of Karls Village.