At First Foundation Bank, we take pride in celebrating the incredible talents of our team members. This month, we’re thrilled to spotlight Francine Martin, Client Service Manager (CSM) at our Running Springs branch. Francine is not only a dedicated leader but also a passionate artist whose current focus is creating glass art.
Her lifelong love for art recently culminated in a remarkable opportunity: creating a mural behind our branch in collaboration with the Running Springs Tourism Bureau. The mural features a vibrant rainbow filled with bright colors that pay homage to the natural springs, mountains, and trees that define the area.
“When asked to create a mural representing Running Springs, I knew I wanted it to feel like stained glass,” Francine shared. “Running Springs is known as the Gateway to the San Bernardino Mountains. The rainbow suggests that gateway—and the feeling that we’ve found the pot of gold at the end of it!”
Francine’s mural captures the indelible spirit of the Running Springs community and has quickly become a local favorite—a beautiful backdrop for photos and a celebration of local identity.
“My art is the alchemy of elements—metal forged in fire, glass shaped by light, clay molded by hand, wood carved with care, and color breathed onto canvas,” Francine said. “Each material speaks a different language, but together they tell one story: the boundless creativity of the human spirit.”
Art plays a powerful role in our communities. It tells our stories, reflects our values, and brings people together. Francine’s mural does just that. It’s more than a work of art—it’s a visual expression of the warmth, resilience, and creativity of Running Springs. Public art has a unique ability to spark conversations and deepen our connection to the places we call home.
This mural stands as a symbol of unity and celebration, inviting both residents and visitors to feel part of something greater. The Running Springs branch has long been a place where community and care converge. Once a school, the site now hosts weekly farmers markets in the spring and summer, supporting local growers and providing fresh food to the community.
During the historic 2024 snowstorm that isolated many mountain residents, our parking lot became a staging ground for emergency supply deliveries. Our team eagerly volunteered to distribute essential items. Whether unloading trucks during a storm, offering snacks to neighborhood children, or supporting local nonprofits, Francine and her team lead with heart and purpose. Francine’s mural is not only a striking piece of art; it’s a symbol of connection, community, and the amazing things that happen when we come together.
“I love how a glass piece changes throughout the day,” Francine added. “The ‘aha’ moment comes when you lift the finished piece and see how the elements connect, blend, and react to the light. I hope I’ve captured the bright, sunny, hopeful, joyful spirit of our lovely town of Running Springs.”
This spirit of creativity and compassion is what makes Running Springs thrive—and it’s at the heart of First Foundation Bank’s mission to invest in the communities we serve. We invite you to visit us, snap a photo by the mural, and experience the vibrant spirit of Running Springs for yourself!
