Fall 2026

C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • F A L L 2 0 2 6 161 Mora’s work often featured his love of animals. He frequently gave them human clothing and chores or activities, most of which were related to the dairy business, but in this case the animals display the joy of summer vacation. Association and was involved in many other aspects of the community. Mora’s artwork sprang from his interests in numerous areas, including Native Americans and cowboys, the American landscape, California history, the clas- sics of Chaucer, and his love of animals. All of these subjects, among others, found expression in his work. He took on many commissions for specific projects and never compromised his integrity. His work always reflected his own style and sense of humor. He was fortunate in being able to create art based on his own interests that also paid the bills. Graff ’s employment of Mora to help with the decorative elements in his shop was genius.The Carmel Dairy sign, which Mora designed and hand painted, is one of only two remaining ele- ments on the exterior of the building created by Mora. It was former mayor of Carmel-by-the- Sea Sue McCloud who is credited with insisting that the Carmel Dairy sign on the building remain visible in perpetuity. The other visual reminder of Mora’s work for the dairy is the iron bell-shaped light sconce on While the business was ongoing and the building unique, it was Graff ’s perceptive decision to hire artist Jo Mora that transformed the project, adding immense charm to the dairy’s story through his abounding creativity.