The Art of Pechanga Arena San Diego Poster Artist Mel Mercelo

We are shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Mel Marcelo. Mel created hundreds of posters for Pechanga Arena San Diego, commemorating the events that came to our arena.

What made these posters special was the hours of research he did, translated into a unique work of art that was never sold, but a gift to the performer and their management team. The performers who received these posters connected with Mel’s art and appreciated it. The posters were always a surprise, which added to the anticipation.

Among his finest pieces, in our opinion, was Mel’s first poster in Braille for blind Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli. Collaborating together on how to make a poster special for someone without sight, Mel translated a welcome message to Bocelli into Braille, with the final poster printed in 3D. Mel’s art now hangs in Bocelli’s Miami home.

Rest easy, Mel. Your enthusiasm and artistry will be missed. Look down on all of us who will continue to admire your spectacular collection.