Youth Murals
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PHASE ONE:
I Am MDA
©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists
I Am MDA
©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists
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PHASE ONE:
Our Values ©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists |
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PHASE TWO:
We Have Landed
©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size/Materials: 7' x 22', acrylic on concrete
Directed by: Paola Reyes Melendez
Assisted by: Giabjo
Design: Mission Dolores Academy 5th grade
Location: Mission Dolores Academy, 3371 16th Street, SF, CA 94114 (16th and Church)
We Have Landed
©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size/Materials: 7' x 22', acrylic on concrete
Directed by: Paola Reyes Melendez
Assisted by: Giabjo
Design: Mission Dolores Academy 5th grade
Location: Mission Dolores Academy, 3371 16th Street, SF, CA 94114 (16th and Church)
DescriPtion
STAIRCASE MURAL
“We Have Landed" The Steps of Life Mural
Narrative is based by the phase 2 mural design team’s stories
The Mural reads from top to bottom, beginning with David, better known as the Blue Wolf astronaut who landed on Art Land. Where Blue Wolf began exploring to find a river of paint that leads down a staircase. During the ride down the steps, we encounter cracks from the 1989 earthquake, paint splatters, friends holding hands, and Leo, the Tiger. Who dipped their paw in the pool of journeys, leaving paint marks alongside the hopscotch. Leo stumbled upon MDA where students hold hands, play basketball, play parachute games in the gym and many other things. It's a community where everyone fits in and can be themselves with all the support you need. At the bottom of the Mural a student pops out of a vortex with a sign reading ‘Do the best you can be’
On the raises of the stairs are positive phrases reading:
Be the change, love yourself, keep it going, teamwork, we are powerful, let's go MDA, great job
“We Have Landed" The Steps of Life Mural
Narrative is based by the phase 2 mural design team’s stories
The Mural reads from top to bottom, beginning with David, better known as the Blue Wolf astronaut who landed on Art Land. Where Blue Wolf began exploring to find a river of paint that leads down a staircase. During the ride down the steps, we encounter cracks from the 1989 earthquake, paint splatters, friends holding hands, and Leo, the Tiger. Who dipped their paw in the pool of journeys, leaving paint marks alongside the hopscotch. Leo stumbled upon MDA where students hold hands, play basketball, play parachute games in the gym and many other things. It's a community where everyone fits in and can be themselves with all the support you need. At the bottom of the Mural a student pops out of a vortex with a sign reading ‘Do the best you can be’
On the raises of the stairs are positive phrases reading:
Be the change, love yourself, keep it going, teamwork, we are powerful, let's go MDA, great job
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PHASE TWO:
Our Yard
©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size/Materials: 9' x 15' x 35' x 15', acrylic on metal
Directed by: Paola Reyes Melendez
Assisted by: Giabjo
Design: Mission Dolores Academy 3rd grade
Location: Mission Dolores Academy, 3371 16th Street, SF, CA 94114 (16th and Church)
Our Yard
©2023 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size/Materials: 9' x 15' x 35' x 15', acrylic on metal
Directed by: Paola Reyes Melendez
Assisted by: Giabjo
Design: Mission Dolores Academy 3rd grade
Location: Mission Dolores Academy, 3371 16th Street, SF, CA 94114 (16th and Church)
Description
PHASE 2:
“Our Yard” CONTAINER MURAL
Narrative is based by the phase 2 mural design team’s stories
The Mural reads from the bottom up, the front face of the container is where the basilica is present has MDA’s Tiger with a graduation cap. Below are people holding hands next to the butterflies and puzzle-piece clouds.
A butterfly wraps around the corner to the side of the container showing the vibrant yard of MDA. The sun radiates from the center out, highlighting the blue angel with the “Let's go MDA” banner. To the left, we see Mr. Ward in conversation with a student. A bee leads us to the beautiful garden and hopscotch. To the right, there is a basketball game with great sportsmanship while someone makes a basket. Below that is “Good Game” and “You Rock” in graffiti-inspired typography.
Around the other corner, you see a lush garden with a super bloom and multiple clouds filled with the sports the MDA community loves.
“Our Yard” CONTAINER MURAL
Narrative is based by the phase 2 mural design team’s stories
The Mural reads from the bottom up, the front face of the container is where the basilica is present has MDA’s Tiger with a graduation cap. Below are people holding hands next to the butterflies and puzzle-piece clouds.
A butterfly wraps around the corner to the side of the container showing the vibrant yard of MDA. The sun radiates from the center out, highlighting the blue angel with the “Let's go MDA” banner. To the left, we see Mr. Ward in conversation with a student. A bee leads us to the beautiful garden and hopscotch. To the right, there is a basketball game with great sportsmanship while someone makes a basket. Below that is “Good Game” and “You Rock” in graffiti-inspired typography.
Around the other corner, you see a lush garden with a super bloom and multiple clouds filled with the sports the MDA community loves.
Prisms of Transformation
©2021 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: Five murals measuring 9' high x 110' wide
Directed by: Eli Lippert and Assisted by Flavia Mora in collaboration with the patient community at St. Mary's Medical Center.
Location: St. Mary's Hospital McAuley Center at Hayes and Shrader
©2021 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: Five murals measuring 9' high x 110' wide
Directed by: Eli Lippert and Assisted by Flavia Mora in collaboration with the patient community at St. Mary's Medical Center.
Location: St. Mary's Hospital McAuley Center at Hayes and Shrader
Description
Prisms of Transformation depicts bright fields and growing fruit trees. A mandala flower shines as the sun and its rays light-up across the land.
Butterflies emerging from cocoons and flowers are painted with LGBTQIA+ community colors. The flowers and butterflies flow across the wall and represent youth growing into their true selves.
As the wall continues around the corner, a beam of light enters a prism and breaks-out into all colors of the rainbow, representing individuality and unity together.
The colors flow under the windows that look out onto the city. Healing herbs, food and crystals grow from in-between.
At the right-most side of the mural, day turns into night while a coyote mother and a cub look up to the moon.
Butterflies emerging from cocoons and flowers are painted with LGBTQIA+ community colors. The flowers and butterflies flow across the wall and represent youth growing into their true selves.
As the wall continues around the corner, a beam of light enters a prism and breaks-out into all colors of the rainbow, representing individuality and unity together.
The colors flow under the windows that look out onto the city. Healing herbs, food and crystals grow from in-between.
At the right-most side of the mural, day turns into night while a coyote mother and a cub look up to the moon.
Beautiful Struggle
©2020 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: Five murals measuring 4' high x 15' wide
Directed by Fred Alvarado and assisted by Keena Romano in collaboration with the students at Oakland High School.
Location: Oakland High School, 1023 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA 94610
©2020 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: Five murals measuring 4' high x 15' wide
Directed by Fred Alvarado and assisted by Keena Romano in collaboration with the students at Oakland High School.
Location: Oakland High School, 1023 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland, CA 94610
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Description
In the fall of 2019 students from Mrs. Aya Allen’s senior English class painted 5, 4x15 foot murals and one main sign on the Park Boulevard side of Oakland High School. The murals focused on icons of social justice movements like Angela Davis,Cesar Chavez, Dolores Huerta, Frida Khalo, Malala Yousafzai, and Yuri Kochiyama. Students broke up in pairs; researched social justice leaders and collaborated on each mural piece. The murals reflect the importance of helping others, standing up for what you believe in and being and loving oneself.
2019
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Knowledge is your Temple
©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
47' x 7', Acrylic
Designed By: Mike Bam Tyau
Assistant/s: Diego Irizarry
with SFcess After School Program (San Francisco Coaltion of Essential Small Schools)
Location: 45 Conkling S & Silver Avet, San Francisco, CA 94124
©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
47' x 7', Acrylic
Designed By: Mike Bam Tyau
Assistant/s: Diego Irizarry
with SFcess After School Program (San Francisco Coaltion of Essential Small Schools)
Location: 45 Conkling S & Silver Avet, San Francisco, CA 94124
Description
The overall warm background colors were the first colors in the visions from 4 students after a meditation session held with them. The warm colors represent a sunrise of a bright future and a safe family feeling for the youth of the school.The location of the school is up high on the hill of Hunters Point and Bayview. Hence the city icons of the Golden Gate bridge, Sutro Tower, and Transamerica can be seen in the background to enforce the location of where the school is located. Since the school is up high on the hill, the students always see the foggy clouds and it is rendered with an Asian and Mayan cultural reference.Since the school is up high on a hill, the students need to climb stairs everyday to reach their school and the location mimics how high a temple or sacred place is located on top of a mountain, so the triangular motif of the background enforces their school's location.The climbing up the mountain also represents the challenge all students go through int heir school life.In addition, the fog that the birds need to navigate through also represents the hardship and problems that the students go through.The birds represent not only migration, but they represent the diversity of the students of African American (blue crane), Chinese/Asian (crane bird), Latino (caracara eagle),and Polynesian (manumea pidgeon) and they fly in a triangle formation enforcing positive direction (going Left to Right). I asked the students to show their cultural reflection, so the Motmot bird of El Salvador (shown on top of the Golden Gate Bridge, and Caracara bird of Mexico (shown flying on the Right) were selected.When asked "what defines culture of Thurgood Marshall Academic High School," the students defined the common elements of music, visual arts, and dance as the most important elements that they share. The two figures on the right represent them as "bird people" with Phoenix-like features because the Phoenix is your school mascot. Since dance is important to the students, the figures are in a swirling dance positions and also reflect the dance that birds do with each other when they play and communicate.Lastly, when we first visited the school, we saw a rainbow that was very low and made the school look like it was floating on clouds above the rainbow. Besides representing pride, the rainbow background also enforces positivity and good luck fortune for Thurgood Marshall Academic High School.
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Presente! (continued)
© 2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Directed by Fred Alvarado and Max Martilla with the Urban Youth Art Students
Location: Folsom and 24th (Philz Coffee)
© 2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Directed by Fred Alvarado and Max Martilla with the Urban Youth Art Students
Location: Folsom and 24th (Philz Coffee)
DESCRIPTION
Not long ago, the Precita Eyes' Presente! mural on the Folsom side of Philz Coffee was marred an unwanted addition: a hulking, ramshackle wooden structure slapped together to house the cafe's trash cans. (Philz takes out the trash, obscures Precita Eyes mural, by Julian Mark/Mission Local, April 2019)
Enter muralists Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado to repair the damage. This duo mentored the Walls of Respect students who created the mural in 2015.
The wall+shelter now bears a new tribute -- to local skateboarding legend Jake Phelps (✟ 2019) -- and exhortations to Ban ICE and Basta! ("Enough!"). The mural's comic-book style includes texts exalting family, respect and teachers.
The iconic mural, a favorite of locals and tourists alike, pays homage to community heroes, including Everett Middle School teacher Martha Estrella, artist Michael V. Rios, a Loco Bloco batucada, clips from El Tecolote, and people walking up Bernal Heights, mourning Alex Nieto and Amilcar Pérez-López, slain by SF police. Hanging out at the corner, poet/activist Alfonso Texidor (✟ 2014) promises passersby that: "When the revolution comes, I'll put in a good word for you."
Enter muralists Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado to repair the damage. This duo mentored the Walls of Respect students who created the mural in 2015.
The wall+shelter now bears a new tribute -- to local skateboarding legend Jake Phelps (✟ 2019) -- and exhortations to Ban ICE and Basta! ("Enough!"). The mural's comic-book style includes texts exalting family, respect and teachers.
The iconic mural, a favorite of locals and tourists alike, pays homage to community heroes, including Everett Middle School teacher Martha Estrella, artist Michael V. Rios, a Loco Bloco batucada, clips from El Tecolote, and people walking up Bernal Heights, mourning Alex Nieto and Amilcar Pérez-López, slain by SF police. Hanging out at the corner, poet/activist Alfonso Texidor (✟ 2014) promises passersby that: "When the revolution comes, I'll put in a good word for you."
"Future Relations"
© 2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
5'x8's, TYVEK paper
Directed Muralist: Diego Irizarry
Designed and Painted: Students of Precita Eyes Muralists' Youth Program
© 2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
5'x8's, TYVEK paper
Directed Muralist: Diego Irizarry
Designed and Painted: Students of Precita Eyes Muralists' Youth Program
Description
Future Relations: A Resource for Radical Teaching presents F.T.P. is the first exhibition of SOMArts 2019-20 Curatorial Residency season. With a combined 30 years of teaching experience, curators Fred Alvarado, Thomas Jones, and David Petrelli reimagine SOMArts’ Main Gallery into a site for collective liberation and hope for educators, community organizers, and youth alike. Precita Eyes Muralists' Youth Program collaborative created a mural for this show. The mural depicts a portrait of Harriet Tubman as a symbol of power and freedom, with a similar connotation of a chain wrapped around and breaking above. In context of today
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"Go in Peace to Love and Serve All People"
© 2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
10'x19', acrylic on stucco
Directed Muralist: Mike Tyau and Julia Barzizza
Designed and Painted: Participants of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School
Location: St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School, 16 Baldwin Ave., San Mateo, CA 94401
© 2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
10'x19', acrylic on stucco
Directed Muralist: Mike Tyau and Julia Barzizza
Designed and Painted: Participants of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School
Location: St. Matthew’s Episcopal Day School, 16 Baldwin Ave., San Mateo, CA 94401
Description
After a creative brainstorm and concept session on September 8th, our team from Precita Eyes, along with students, parents, teachers, and members of the church narrowed down a list of themes and elements that are important to the St. Matthewʻs community. Prior to the meeting, the main theme presented for the mural was “Go in peace to love and serve all people.”
The narrowed down list included the first priority themes and elements of love, hearts, open hands, the flying dove, bridges connecting community, the May Pole event, stained glass images, music, and nature. Secondary themes were the Kingʻs Highway hymn, a surfer representing California, and the school mascot of the mustang.
We included in the design to show the priority imagery of how the open hands fits into the heart symbol. The heart has reverberating outlines made of stained glass and represents how love spreads throughout our community as St. Matthews welcomes all types of people to itʻs congregation.
The written theme of “Go in peace to love and serve all people.” was resolved at our concept meeting to be painted on a scroll waving throughout the top of the mural. Along with the top scroll is the the surfer, the flying dove, and the school mascot/mustang.
A monochromatic scene of children dancing the May Pole dance is also in the mural and was rendered in a monochromatic way to simplify the color scheme and the original photo it was taken from. Itʻs possible that we can adjust the design to have the ribbons in multiple colors. Music notes surround the top and also carry throughout the top of the mural.
The background theme and elements represent nature. From the waves on the upper left, it transitions to clouds/fog that represent how the clouds flow down the 92 from the west coast. Huge redwood & pine trees fill the background and surround the “Kingʻs Highway” road that bends around the right side of the heart.
The narrowed down list included the first priority themes and elements of love, hearts, open hands, the flying dove, bridges connecting community, the May Pole event, stained glass images, music, and nature. Secondary themes were the Kingʻs Highway hymn, a surfer representing California, and the school mascot of the mustang.
We included in the design to show the priority imagery of how the open hands fits into the heart symbol. The heart has reverberating outlines made of stained glass and represents how love spreads throughout our community as St. Matthews welcomes all types of people to itʻs congregation.
The written theme of “Go in peace to love and serve all people.” was resolved at our concept meeting to be painted on a scroll waving throughout the top of the mural. Along with the top scroll is the the surfer, the flying dove, and the school mascot/mustang.
A monochromatic scene of children dancing the May Pole dance is also in the mural and was rendered in a monochromatic way to simplify the color scheme and the original photo it was taken from. Itʻs possible that we can adjust the design to have the ribbons in multiple colors. Music notes surround the top and also carry throughout the top of the mural.
The background theme and elements represent nature. From the waves on the upper left, it transitions to clouds/fog that represent how the clouds flow down the 92 from the west coast. Huge redwood & pine trees fill the background and surround the “Kingʻs Highway” road that bends around the right side of the heart.
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“Dignity” ©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: 9’ x 67’, Acrylic on wall
Directed By: Eli Lippert
Assisted by: Diego Irizarry
Designed By: McAuley Students and staff
Location: McAuley CEEP School St., Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan Street, SF
Size: 9’ x 67’, Acrylic on wall
Directed By: Eli Lippert
Assisted by: Diego Irizarry
Designed By: McAuley Students and staff
Location: McAuley CEEP School St., Mary’s Medical Center, 450 Stanyan Street, SF
Description
The theme of the mural stems out of the students ideas of community and growth. Reading from left to right we first see a muni bus, representing a place to meet different communities and the diversity of sf with the word love inside the bus. A tree with growing fruits and strong roots follows with the words ‘Growth, Honesty, Hope and Respect’ scribed into the roots. From there a bird in flight soars toward the center of the mural and glides over a young couple sitting on the grass enjoying nature. In the center of the mural a light bulb seconds as the sun with rays shining out in all directions. Below reads the word ‘Dignity’ in bold letters. To the right we see a mother and children to represent family and a group of diverse animal characters holding up a banner reading ‘Kindness Matters’. Above them rises a pattern of rainbow turtles. Growing out of the hillside is Mother Nature’s hand with a caterpillar transforming into a monarch butterfly, representing a transformation to a better, more free self. A rose blossoms beneath the butterfly. Finishing off the mural is an alien space ship, coming out of the darkness and into the light of this beautiful world. A symbol of knowing how it feels to be out of place in this world and creating a better environment for oneselthe theme of the mural stems out of the students ideas of community and growth. Reading from left to right we first see a muni bus, representing a place to meet different communities and the diversity of sf with the word love inside the bus. A tree with growing fruits and strong roots follows with the words ‘Growth, Honesty, Hope and Respect’ scribed into the roots. From there a bird in flight soars toward the center of the mural and glides over a young couple sitting on the grass enjoying nature. In the center of the mural a light bulb seconds as the sun with rays shining out in all directions. Below reads the word ‘Dignity’ in bold letters. To the right we see a mother and children to represent family and a group of diverse animal characters holding up a banner reading ‘Kindness Matters’. Above them rises a pattern of rainbow turtles. Growing out of the hillside is Mother Nature’s hand with a caterpillar transforming into a monarch butterfly, representing a transformation to a better, more free self. A rose blossoms beneath the butterfly. Finishing off the mural is an alien space ship, coming out of the darkness and into the light of this beautiful world. A symbol of knowing how it feels to be out of place in this world and creating a better environment for oneself and creating the changes you need to succeed. F and creating the changes you need to succeed.
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Curiosity Will Get You Where You Want To Go
©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: 8’x 23’ and 8’x 39’, Acrylic
Directed by: Robert Louthan/Deirdre Weinberg with Lincoln HS Students/Precita Eyes Volunteers
Location: Lincoln High School 24th Avenue @ Quintara St., North and South Walls
©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: 8’x 23’ and 8’x 39’, Acrylic
Directed by: Robert Louthan/Deirdre Weinberg with Lincoln HS Students/Precita Eyes Volunteers
Location: Lincoln High School 24th Avenue @ Quintara St., North and South Walls
Description:
The north wall of our mural represents a students path toward graduation, holding her diploma proudly and standing beside the support of her family, fellow students, and community. The spectrum of technology, literature, arts, sports, nature merges and flows across the background,representing the authentic importance of these influences. Curiosity is the instigating force, the thread that weaves these elements together into the tapestry of her great achievement. The south wall of our mural represents the cosmos. A boy views the solar system with both existing and imagined constellations, curious to know his place within it- while a music box generating the galaxy fills a cup, to signify the universe is also within him. Our moonwalker, descending from a constellation and morphing into human form, represents the importance of setting big goals, that even ‘impossible’ goals can be realized with hard work. The NASA patch on our graduates gown is a subtle nod to this astronaut, who is seen as the student reaching her own dream.
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“Innovative Resistance”
©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: 38'(H) x33'(w)
Directed by: Max Marttila
Assisted by: Sami Schilf, Diego Irizarry, Amber Ramirez
Designed and Painted by: the Urban Youth Arts Class:
Teresa Benson, Josie Merer, Jason Ira, Gisselle Wilson, Chloe Dimitrou, Sydney Li, Jude Pagpaguitan, Angelica Castro, Jaden Luscher, Xochitl Quiroz, Izak Lederman-Beach, Lilia Kuroda, Brenda De La Cruz, Neto Najera, Chase, Haven Hibser, Rey Novicio Jr, Ronna Raz, Emily Lin, Charlene Casuga
Special Thanks to: Jesus Varela, Brittany Henry and the Impact Hub Community
Sponsored by: AT&T
©2019 Precita Eyes Muralists
Size: 38'(H) x33'(w)
Directed by: Max Marttila
Assisted by: Sami Schilf, Diego Irizarry, Amber Ramirez
Designed and Painted by: the Urban Youth Arts Class:
Teresa Benson, Josie Merer, Jason Ira, Gisselle Wilson, Chloe Dimitrou, Sydney Li, Jude Pagpaguitan, Angelica Castro, Jaden Luscher, Xochitl Quiroz, Izak Lederman-Beach, Lilia Kuroda, Brenda De La Cruz, Neto Najera, Chase, Haven Hibser, Rey Novicio Jr, Ronna Raz, Emily Lin, Charlene Casuga
Special Thanks to: Jesus Varela, Brittany Henry and the Impact Hub Community
Sponsored by: AT&T
Description
This mural celebrates the vision of San Francisco youth as they imagine possibilities inspired by external events in their city.
At the center of the mural, a semi-transparent Muni bus weaves and winds passengers throughout their life journey. Driven by a young woman styled in clothing inspired by Mayan Goddess Ix’chel passengers on the bus are playing music, and catching tags on the ceiling. Outside the bus, a fiery jaguar is cruising on the roof, sparkling like the metallic candy paint on Mission lowriders. The road beneath the bus is a tapestry, being woven in the lap of a young woman, who is carefully crafting the words “INNOVATE” and “RESIST” into the fabric, echoing the youth artists’ efforts to build and create new solutions to the many challenges they see in their city.
A chaotic scene shows artists and protesters confronting police heavily suited in riot gear. From one side, police are unleashing pepper spray into a crowd, while the people respond to the violence with spray cans, bullhorns and chants. Some passerby’s use their phones to record the conflict, while other remain in an oblivious trance on their devices. Woven into the flowers in the top right of the mural, cameras and radio towers are bearing witness to the scenes below, a nod to the current age of hyper evolving technology, surveillance and security.
At the bottom of the mural, an altar stands, glowing from the many candles lit in honor of black lives lost as a result of police brutality and state violence. A spirit, honoring the life of Nia Wilson an Oakland teen murdered in 2018, moves out of the altar dancing in rhythm to the records being spun by local DJ’s. Nearby the altar, a traveling case filled with native flowers spills open revealing how we can carry hope and medicine along with us as we go through life.
Under the freeway, we see communities and families gathering together. A homeless mother and her children huddle around a bright hopeful light, cradled in their tent, as crowds of protesters nearby march to demand for human rights, homes, and to save San Francisco’s families from displacement.
Bordering the whole mural, are classic San Francisco homes, intertwined with vines, roots and local flowers that represent the strong sense of being home in the city and the resilience of our communities that continue to blossom in even the harshest conditions. In harmony with nature, the vines come alive as small but mighty characters reading books on self love while nearby novels blossom like springtime flowers.
This mural celebrates daily San Francisco life in it's details, with elders watching over their beloved city, as a group of kids skate the park nearby. Glowing three stories above it all, the iconic SF skyline burns brightly into the evening, illuminating a set of joyous and sorrowful masks that flash cards embroidered with 4 1 5, San Francisco’s area code, telling the story of the happiness, struggle, family, and beauty that are all part and parcel to this city life.
At the center of the mural, a semi-transparent Muni bus weaves and winds passengers throughout their life journey. Driven by a young woman styled in clothing inspired by Mayan Goddess Ix’chel passengers on the bus are playing music, and catching tags on the ceiling. Outside the bus, a fiery jaguar is cruising on the roof, sparkling like the metallic candy paint on Mission lowriders. The road beneath the bus is a tapestry, being woven in the lap of a young woman, who is carefully crafting the words “INNOVATE” and “RESIST” into the fabric, echoing the youth artists’ efforts to build and create new solutions to the many challenges they see in their city.
A chaotic scene shows artists and protesters confronting police heavily suited in riot gear. From one side, police are unleashing pepper spray into a crowd, while the people respond to the violence with spray cans, bullhorns and chants. Some passerby’s use their phones to record the conflict, while other remain in an oblivious trance on their devices. Woven into the flowers in the top right of the mural, cameras and radio towers are bearing witness to the scenes below, a nod to the current age of hyper evolving technology, surveillance and security.
At the bottom of the mural, an altar stands, glowing from the many candles lit in honor of black lives lost as a result of police brutality and state violence. A spirit, honoring the life of Nia Wilson an Oakland teen murdered in 2018, moves out of the altar dancing in rhythm to the records being spun by local DJ’s. Nearby the altar, a traveling case filled with native flowers spills open revealing how we can carry hope and medicine along with us as we go through life.
Under the freeway, we see communities and families gathering together. A homeless mother and her children huddle around a bright hopeful light, cradled in their tent, as crowds of protesters nearby march to demand for human rights, homes, and to save San Francisco’s families from displacement.
Bordering the whole mural, are classic San Francisco homes, intertwined with vines, roots and local flowers that represent the strong sense of being home in the city and the resilience of our communities that continue to blossom in even the harshest conditions. In harmony with nature, the vines come alive as small but mighty characters reading books on self love while nearby novels blossom like springtime flowers.
This mural celebrates daily San Francisco life in it's details, with elders watching over their beloved city, as a group of kids skate the park nearby. Glowing three stories above it all, the iconic SF skyline burns brightly into the evening, illuminating a set of joyous and sorrowful masks that flash cards embroidered with 4 1 5, San Francisco’s area code, telling the story of the happiness, struggle, family, and beauty that are all part and parcel to this city life.
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2018
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Mission Love
©2018 Precita Eyes Muralists
12'x18', Acrylic on Stucco
Designed by: Priya Handa and Mission Girls
©2018 Precita Eyes Muralists
12'x18', Acrylic on Stucco
Designed by: Priya Handa and Mission Girls
Description
‘Mission Love’ is designed by the youth of Mission Girls. It represents the love the youth have for the Mission District and what motivates their resilience. The youth wanted to emphasize their elders that have come before them cleaning the way for them. From left to right there is an elder clearing the area for the next generation of women, using a copalero (clay container that holds copal in ceremony) holding smoke. The copalero that holds smoke reads ‘Mission Love’ because it is what we hope this design manifests. There are Loco Bloco drummers in the background with ‘Amor’ (Love) and ‘Paz’ (Peace) written in the drums to represent what participating in music and dance does for the community. It brings love and peace. Because some of the youth and their friends are dreamers we have butterflies along the mural to represent the immigration most Mission folks have gone through. In the larger butterfly are two women from back home making tortillas. This represents the youth’s hope of tapping in and preserving their culture. To the far right is a student graduating in her cap and gown embracing her family. This symbolizes how many of the youth struggle to show up to school, but continue to do so because they are motivated and inspired by their parents sacrifices. From the graduates stash it turns into a red carpet, with a low rider, with a license plate reading ‘DREAMER. This represents the goals and accomplishments the Mission Girls want to see themselves achieve.
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Infinite Possibilities
© 2018 Precita Eyes Muralists 6’ x 20’, spraypaint Directed By: Max Marttila Designed By: Urban Youth Arts Class Location: 24th and Lilac (behind Mcdonalds) Assistant/s: Samantha, Saturday UYA teacher. Students: Jude, Jamar, Barbara, Mika, Willow and Eric DESCRIPTION
Infinite Possibilities is a mural about the extreme ends of time, from the days when dinosaurs roamed the earth, to the future where robots tower over a digital landscape. In the center of the mural is a muscle car/lowrider that’s been altered for a futuristic world, adorned with legs and hover feet. Next to the car is a robot fashioned in timberland boots for all terrain activities. The right hand side is framed with flowers that represent our connection to the original earth. On the left hand side is a cool colored blue and pink Tyrannosaurus rex looking back at an erupting volcano. Over the volcano as well as the rest of the background floor is a torn like green grid. |
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2017
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Dreams On Broad Street
(The OMI/Lakeview Mural)
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
Designed by Max Marttila and Xavier Schmidt
(The OMI/Lakeview Mural)
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
Designed by Max Marttila and Xavier Schmidt
Description
The OMI Mural is a celebration of the south western district of the city and its residents. Painted on the side of Lacy’s Barbershop on Broad and Plymouth the mural depicts the large hill that makes up a large portion of the neighborhood. Colored fog rolls in over the Orizaba rock hill onto a stream of homes that begins in muted sepia tones and continues into segments of bright colored houses. The fog continues to creep throughout the rest of the mural, framing a scene in the barbershop of Lacy cutting the hair of Mr. Furlough, the former barber. Framed pictures hang over the landscape. Portraits of recognized members of the community including the late Mike Brown of ICY, Dr. Shelton, Will Reno and a portrait of a young man Lawrence Collins. Outside of this is the market next door offering healthy organic food. Through the center of the mural is a train track being built for the two historical trains runing on the track, the old green F Train and the old white M Oceanview train. The Oceanview sign has been changed to Broad st and the MUNI logo has been changed to UNITY. In the bottom left corner is a BBQ scene with the smoke flowing out of the grill and transforming into sidewalk. A young girl waiting for food wears a blue school uniform to represent St Michael’s church which is also depicted in the top right corner. The IT Bookman center and Minnie & Lovie Ward Park are also shown. Above St Michaels church is a cursive script of the name ”Lakeview”, the most recognized name for the neighborhood graces the top of the mural.
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Prescription for Change Mural
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
107" wide x 68” tall, Acrylic on plexiglass
Designed By: Max Marttila and Carla Wojczuk with Build On youth
Location: Rodan and Fields Convention, MGM Grand Hotel, Las Vegas NV
Funding by: Rodan and Fields
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
107" wide x 68” tall, Acrylic on plexiglass
Designed By: Max Marttila and Carla Wojczuk with Build On youth
Location: Rodan and Fields Convention, MGM Grand Hotel, Las Vegas NV
Funding by: Rodan and Fields
Description
Two sided acrylic mural on free-standing plexiglass. This mural was conceptualized with Rodan and Fields’ Prescription for Change foundation youth member of the Build On community service program. The murals were then painted by Build On youth, Rodan and Fields top donors and ‘Change Makers’ in a live mural performance at the 2017 Rodan and Fields convention in Las Vegas, NV. One side depicts two hands holding a world. One hand has a bracelet that says “Do Good” - a R+F slogan. This side also shows the names of the top donors to Prescription for Change Foundation. The second side depicts various images of community services that Build On youth engage in, with the PFC logo at the center and a message that reads: “you can be a change maker.”
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La Cultura Cura
©2017 Precita Eyes
Spray paint on brick
Muralist: Xavier Schmidt with the Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: 24th and Lucky Alley, SF CA
©2017 Precita Eyes
Spray paint on brick
Muralist: Xavier Schmidt with the Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: 24th and Lucky Alley, SF CA
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'Dia de los muertos'
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
4'x6', acrylic on wood.
Directed muralist: Joseph Colmenares
In collaboration with: students from Legal Service for Children
Mural location: Legal Service for Children, 1254 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
4'x6', acrylic on wood.
Directed muralist: Joseph Colmenares
In collaboration with: students from Legal Service for Children
Mural location: Legal Service for Children, 1254 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102
DESCRIPTION:
This mural is dedicated to the traditional “Dia de los muertos” celebration. It will be displayed at the Dia de los muertos event in Oakland MOMA. This mural served as a way to bring the students together and build leadership and community through art.
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Once Upon a Time in the Mission
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
Directed by: Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado in collaboration with Ramiro Guillermo, Jovanny Guillermo, George Crampton, Paul de Costa and the Precita Eyes Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: Shotwell and 24th Street
©2017 Precita Eyes Muralists
Directed by: Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado in collaboration with Ramiro Guillermo, Jovanny Guillermo, George Crampton, Paul de Costa and the Precita Eyes Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: Shotwell and 24th Street
DescRiption
This mural is a response to the pain from gang violence that has saddened his sector for quite sometime. The Urban Youth Arts program collaborated with local artists who grew up on Shotwell Street to create an uplifting mural that serves as an offering to those who have passed on. Vintage tourist postcards are employed as a template for the mural, which has the legend “Once Upon A Time In the Mission District” spelled out in images inside of its letters.
The "M" contains "17Reasons" and "Whiz Burger" signs, a car chase, and a burning building with an eviction notice flying out of the window.The "I" contains a BART ticket, a Red Trim label, a Youth FastPass and a pair of sneakers. The first and second"S" contain a view of Mission High School as seen from Dolores Park, along with an abalone shell and a stick of burning sage.Smoke from the sage rises through the"S"and morphs into a scene of modern Ohlone people on a boat. The next"I"contains a dancer. The "O" portrays food. "N" depicts “Laugh Now,Cry Later” through the faces of two girls, Pacos Tacos and sugar skulls. The word “District” is spelled out on the far side of the wall, where a teen biker is doing a wheelie. TheSun is based on an illustration from an old low-rider magazine.Lastly, a stereo speaker commemorates the dead with the names of loved ones lost in the neighborhood
The "M" contains "17Reasons" and "Whiz Burger" signs, a car chase, and a burning building with an eviction notice flying out of the window.The "I" contains a BART ticket, a Red Trim label, a Youth FastPass and a pair of sneakers. The first and second"S" contain a view of Mission High School as seen from Dolores Park, along with an abalone shell and a stick of burning sage.Smoke from the sage rises through the"S"and morphs into a scene of modern Ohlone people on a boat. The next"I"contains a dancer. The "O" portrays food. "N" depicts “Laugh Now,Cry Later” through the faces of two girls, Pacos Tacos and sugar skulls. The word “District” is spelled out on the far side of the wall, where a teen biker is doing a wheelie. TheSun is based on an illustration from an old low-rider magazine.Lastly, a stereo speaker commemorates the dead with the names of loved ones lost in the neighborhood
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Take it From the Top: Latin Rock
©2017 Precita Eyes
Acrylic on stucco
Muralists: Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado in collaboration with the Urban Youth Arts Program
Assisted by: Margaret White and Marina Perez-Wong
Location: 25th and York Streets, SF CA
Funding: California Arts Council
©2017 Precita Eyes
Acrylic on stucco
Muralists: Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado in collaboration with the Urban Youth Arts Program
Assisted by: Margaret White and Marina Perez-Wong
Location: 25th and York Streets, SF CA
Funding: California Arts Council
Description
“Take It From the Top: Latin Rock” is a celebration of the latin rock scene in the mission district designed by the Urban Youth Arts Class. It is painted on the house of local musician Richard Segovia. Inside the house is a recording studio where musicians practice as well as teach youth how to play instruments. This mural contains almost 100 portraits of musicians who helped define the sounds of the mission district and paved the way for others. Musicians include John Santos, Maria Medina, Rick Stevens, Abel and the Prophets, Malo, Bandido, Carlos Kookie Gonzalez and many more. The top front façade of the house features a sun mandala containing the owner of the house Richard Segovia, along with his family. Below him are the bands Dakila, Mabuhay, Bandido and Zorro. A Large tiger guards the garage door with a mystical glowing tree.
Along the west side of the house there is another mandala containing a moon, which works as the night lightsource. Next to that is the mission dolores church turned into a jukebox speaker. Below is a conga line weaving through a jungle party scene featuring a neighborhood dog named Chico, an ocelot and other creatures. A large painting of musician Chalo shows him spinning a world on his finger in space. At the end of the wall is a fence that serves as an altar with a large open flower in the middle. Compiled over the flower are a group of musicians no longer with us aside a row of candles and some cactus.
On the southwest corner of the house there is a large tree with musical instruments hung from it. This tree continues into the inner staircase of the house where there is a portrait of the famous Malo group (formerly “the Fabulous Malibus” also in the mural) within an orange comic book style explosion. At the bottom of the stairs is a fantasy field of hills and plants welcoming you into the house of Latin Rock.
Along the west side of the house there is another mandala containing a moon, which works as the night lightsource. Next to that is the mission dolores church turned into a jukebox speaker. Below is a conga line weaving through a jungle party scene featuring a neighborhood dog named Chico, an ocelot and other creatures. A large painting of musician Chalo shows him spinning a world on his finger in space. At the end of the wall is a fence that serves as an altar with a large open flower in the middle. Compiled over the flower are a group of musicians no longer with us aside a row of candles and some cactus.
On the southwest corner of the house there is a large tree with musical instruments hung from it. This tree continues into the inner staircase of the house where there is a portrait of the famous Malo group (formerly “the Fabulous Malibus” also in the mural) within an orange comic book style explosion. At the bottom of the stairs is a fantasy field of hills and plants welcoming you into the house of Latin Rock.
2016
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"Spirit of Change" Mural
©2016 Precita Eyes Muralists
5’ x 41’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Eli Lippert, assisted by Priya Handa
Design by: Students from San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.
Location: San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.
©2016 Precita Eyes Muralists
5’ x 41’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Eli Lippert, assisted by Priya Handa
Design by: Students from San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.
Location: San Mateo County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services.
Description:
On the far left side of the wall, along the whole length of the wall is a swan fleeing from a cage. The youth felt this image was symbolic in representing the need for freeing themselves in order to experience the changes of life. This group had the choice of picking amongst several birds and their symbolic meanings, but they chose the Swan. The Swan represents grace, beauty, and self growth which resonated with the youth the most. As we move towards the right along the mural, there are butterflies closer to the top. The butterfly represents the change humans go through and the beauty of the end product. Two artists from the group looked up butterflies they wanted depicted in the mural and drew their rendering of it. As we move further along the right, we see the caterpillar from which the butterfly comes from, symbolizing the different phases of change in life that are parallel to the metamorphosis a caterpillar goes through.
In the center of the mural there are wolves running together with hares to represent the concept of prey and predator running together as spirits. The youth discussed that seeing prey and predator get along is very rare and it's something they wish for their community as well, especially during the changes the youth are experiencing in different aspects of their life. The group of wolves represent the pack that wolves maintain while traveling and hunting. The wolves have furs with different shades to represent the different communities and backgrounds that the youth and their families represent. This was done in hopes of creating and image that is inclusive of all groups in the area. The hares can be seen running in between the wolves to reinforce the idea and wish for opposing groups to come together and run in the same direction.
To the farthest right side of the mural, behind the stairs, there is a large lotus welcoming the doorway. Several of the artists came together and agreed this flower was very representative of how they felt. The lotus is known for growing in the muddiest and dirtiest environments, but staying pure and growing with beauty and elegance. The group agreed that this is symbolic because each child is going through a different experience but it is important to not let their environment change who they are or how they feel about themselves, but rather to keep growing and striving despite how 'muddy' their surroundings.
In the center of the mural there are wolves running together with hares to represent the concept of prey and predator running together as spirits. The youth discussed that seeing prey and predator get along is very rare and it's something they wish for their community as well, especially during the changes the youth are experiencing in different aspects of their life. The group of wolves represent the pack that wolves maintain while traveling and hunting. The wolves have furs with different shades to represent the different communities and backgrounds that the youth and their families represent. This was done in hopes of creating and image that is inclusive of all groups in the area. The hares can be seen running in between the wolves to reinforce the idea and wish for opposing groups to come together and run in the same direction.
To the farthest right side of the mural, behind the stairs, there is a large lotus welcoming the doorway. Several of the artists came together and agreed this flower was very representative of how they felt. The lotus is known for growing in the muddiest and dirtiest environments, but staying pure and growing with beauty and elegance. The group agreed that this is symbolic because each child is going through a different experience but it is important to not let their environment change who they are or how they feel about themselves, but rather to keep growing and striving despite how 'muddy' their surroundings.
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"Canzion De La Mariposas" or "Song of the Butterflies" Mural
©2016 Precita Eyes Muralists
6’ x 14’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Francisco Franco, designed by Legal Services for Children Youth
Location: 1254 Market St, 3rd Floor San Francisco, CA
©2016 Precita Eyes Muralists
6’ x 14’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Francisco Franco, designed by Legal Services for Children Youth
Location: 1254 Market St, 3rd Floor San Francisco, CA
Description:
The mural is titled “ Canzion De La Mariposas” or “Song of the Butterflies”. The title was inspired by the theme that the group of children at LSC came up with; Hope and Transformation. For the youth, Legal Services for Children gave them a sense of inspiration, hope and transformation, which was a common feeling among the group. In exploring this theme, ideas about community, acceptance, freedom, growth and transformation and the helping hands needed to reach their dreams for a bright colors and sunshine to represent hope and brighter day. The butterflies became an important part of the narrative; to them it was an obvious symbol for metamorphosis and growth. They also embodied the many stages and drastic transformation that they were currently facing as young adults, as well as the freedom represented by the flight that these beautiful butterflies evoke as they dance across the sky. The brightly colored butterflies were used as a visual tool in order to move the viewer across the painted composition and guide one through the narrative. Hands also became important for them, because for them they represented community, friendship and family. They came up with the great idea of having them rooted to the ground further expressing their connections to the community and the world around them. They also represent those helping hands and adults who have come along the way and helped them through their difficult transitions.
The hearts in the palms represent the love provided by caring friends and social workers that have guided them along the process. They are also reaching hands painted in many colors used to represent all peoples and our common struggle to reach for higher plateaus and a better way of life. The mural is meant to be read from left to right and opens up to the sun and moon, which the youth felt, represented their hopes and dreams for a brighter more positive future. The sunflowers were also added to remind us of this same dream, although rooted to the earth and mud, it is always looking toward the light, reflecting the colors and beauty of the sun. A reminder to keep your head up and stay positive because the splendor of the brighter tomorrow can be found and attained in even the most humble of creations. The final addition was a portrait of a former LSC social worker that has passes a short time ago. To honor her we painted a portrait of her symbolically releasing the butterflies into the air as they go forth in a melodic flight carrying along a positive message of hope and change. Though she may be gone the much needed help and work LSC provides the youth continue, not only through the social worker there, but also by the vision of the children who created this mural that embodies those ideals. The students poetically titled the mural “Song of the Butterflies”; the song is the message of the hopes, dreams and aspirations of all the children who walk through the doors of LSC.
The hearts in the palms represent the love provided by caring friends and social workers that have guided them along the process. They are also reaching hands painted in many colors used to represent all peoples and our common struggle to reach for higher plateaus and a better way of life. The mural is meant to be read from left to right and opens up to the sun and moon, which the youth felt, represented their hopes and dreams for a brighter more positive future. The sunflowers were also added to remind us of this same dream, although rooted to the earth and mud, it is always looking toward the light, reflecting the colors and beauty of the sun. A reminder to keep your head up and stay positive because the splendor of the brighter tomorrow can be found and attained in even the most humble of creations. The final addition was a portrait of a former LSC social worker that has passes a short time ago. To honor her we painted a portrait of her symbolically releasing the butterflies into the air as they go forth in a melodic flight carrying along a positive message of hope and change. Though she may be gone the much needed help and work LSC provides the youth continue, not only through the social worker there, but also by the vision of the children who created this mural that embodies those ideals. The students poetically titled the mural “Song of the Butterflies”; the song is the message of the hopes, dreams and aspirations of all the children who walk through the doors of LSC.
2015
Walls of Respect projects:
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El Juego De La Resistencia" Mural, 2015
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
12’ x 55’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Tirso Araiza in collaboration with Fred Alvarado, Max Marttila and the Precita Eyes Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: 24th Street Mini Park, SF CA
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
12’ x 55’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Tirso Araiza in collaboration with Fred Alvarado, Max Marttila and the Precita Eyes Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: 24th Street Mini Park, SF CA
Description:
El Juego de la Resistencia: Minipark Mural, Tirso g. Araiza
This mural is a tribute to one of our own cultural tlatoani, Ralph Maradiaga, a cultural warrior whose legacy is still very much alive. A tlatoani in the Nahuatl or Aztec language is the term for a speaker or leader. I originally painted this mural in 1988 with Mexican painter and printmaker, Ricardo Anguia. The original mural on plywood panel was removed several years ago, as it had practically fallen apart due to weather and lack of maintenance. In this update, I have retained the basics of the original design, but also added and changed many elements to make it more contemporary.
But the murals’ main message, and homage to Ralph Maradiaga, remains the same. We can easily see Ralph’s leadership as a tlatoani in the works he left behind, such as the institution of La Galeria de la Raza, the first and one of the most important Latina Chicano art galleries in northern California. As an artistic leader, his passion for indigenous cultural roots led him to reflect upon our ancestral imagery and the contemporary expressions of our political and social movements. His vision for the inclusion for Chicano artists who were denied access to mainstream art galleries and museums, moved him to create a physical space where Latino and Chicano art would thrive and gain respect from the people who had snubbed it before.
In the recreation of our former mural, I wanted to pay my respects to his legacy; Ralph is depicted as a spirit image gazing out at the new generations that come to enjoy this park that is dedicated to him. The story of the mural itself begins with a carved Mayan stone stela, imbedded in the jungle where our ancient cultures have endured. During the time of the European invasion of the Americas, in Tenochtitlan, now know as Mexico City, high-ranking soldiers were distinguished with the titles of the Eagle and Jaguar warriors. These warriors were responsible for the protection of the population against the warring invaders. Here they represent the resiliency of our Native American heritage that refuses to be erased and silenced.
Uruguayan writer, Eduardo Galeano, once said: “Indigenous people, it is plain to see, are only a problem for those who deny the right to be who they are.” This is the soul of the mural and the heart of Ralph’s message: supporting the project of Chicano cultural pride and reclamation. The warriors emerge from the jungle carrying toys and presents, still caring for the children of our times. The toys are made out of wood and other natural materials to stimulate their imagination, communication and cooperation. The importance of these traditional toys resides in the beauty of children learning, and keeping the tradition of coexistence with their environment and community. Many of these toys require that the participants engage with each other to play, enjoy and socialize.
The mural’s story unfolds as the images transition from ancient past to contemporary life in the urban barrios where our children roller skate and ride through cement jungles. The Muni bus is used here as a vehicle for communicating current political realities that affect Latinos on both sides of the border. The horrific violations of human rights in Mexico are portrayed in the proud tradition of Chicano art for social change. The Mayan scribe, in the form of a rabbit on top of the bus, is busy denouncing the atrocities of disappearances and murders y the corrupt and criminal Mexican government throughout the country, The word “Ayotzinapa”, emblazoned on the bus, reminds us of the recent kidnappings of student teachers by the local police inn the state of Guerrero.
The bus driver is Rene Yanez, a leading Chicano artist, curator and cultural activist, and co- founder of Galeria de la Raza. Rene was the first curator to introduce renowned Mexican artists Frida Kahlo to North American audiences in 1978. Frida travels with him everywhere he goes. Rene is currently being evicted from his long time Mission residence, so we give him a permanent place on these walls. Next to Rene is Ralph’s luminous image. And then comes the school bus that appeared in the original mural, painted in 1988 with collaborating painter and friend Ricardo Anguia, from Mexico City. The Muni and the school bus are both carried by human legs that propel them through a scenery surrounded by traditional toys and children dressed as luchadores (wrestlers) as Aztec warriors fly overhead protecting them and remind us of our rich heritage.
In the words of Ralph Maradiaga: “The images I use in my work are a reflection of our culture, its people and its tradition. As artists we must share customs, lifestyles and imagery with one another. It is only through artistic, social and political ideologies that we ascertain and retain from a place in history and document it for our children.”
Not the end, aqui estamos y no nos vamos.
Tirso Gonzalez Araiza, April 26, 2015
This mural is a tribute to one of our own cultural tlatoani, Ralph Maradiaga, a cultural warrior whose legacy is still very much alive. A tlatoani in the Nahuatl or Aztec language is the term for a speaker or leader. I originally painted this mural in 1988 with Mexican painter and printmaker, Ricardo Anguia. The original mural on plywood panel was removed several years ago, as it had practically fallen apart due to weather and lack of maintenance. In this update, I have retained the basics of the original design, but also added and changed many elements to make it more contemporary.
But the murals’ main message, and homage to Ralph Maradiaga, remains the same. We can easily see Ralph’s leadership as a tlatoani in the works he left behind, such as the institution of La Galeria de la Raza, the first and one of the most important Latina Chicano art galleries in northern California. As an artistic leader, his passion for indigenous cultural roots led him to reflect upon our ancestral imagery and the contemporary expressions of our political and social movements. His vision for the inclusion for Chicano artists who were denied access to mainstream art galleries and museums, moved him to create a physical space where Latino and Chicano art would thrive and gain respect from the people who had snubbed it before.
In the recreation of our former mural, I wanted to pay my respects to his legacy; Ralph is depicted as a spirit image gazing out at the new generations that come to enjoy this park that is dedicated to him. The story of the mural itself begins with a carved Mayan stone stela, imbedded in the jungle where our ancient cultures have endured. During the time of the European invasion of the Americas, in Tenochtitlan, now know as Mexico City, high-ranking soldiers were distinguished with the titles of the Eagle and Jaguar warriors. These warriors were responsible for the protection of the population against the warring invaders. Here they represent the resiliency of our Native American heritage that refuses to be erased and silenced.
Uruguayan writer, Eduardo Galeano, once said: “Indigenous people, it is plain to see, are only a problem for those who deny the right to be who they are.” This is the soul of the mural and the heart of Ralph’s message: supporting the project of Chicano cultural pride and reclamation. The warriors emerge from the jungle carrying toys and presents, still caring for the children of our times. The toys are made out of wood and other natural materials to stimulate their imagination, communication and cooperation. The importance of these traditional toys resides in the beauty of children learning, and keeping the tradition of coexistence with their environment and community. Many of these toys require that the participants engage with each other to play, enjoy and socialize.
The mural’s story unfolds as the images transition from ancient past to contemporary life in the urban barrios where our children roller skate and ride through cement jungles. The Muni bus is used here as a vehicle for communicating current political realities that affect Latinos on both sides of the border. The horrific violations of human rights in Mexico are portrayed in the proud tradition of Chicano art for social change. The Mayan scribe, in the form of a rabbit on top of the bus, is busy denouncing the atrocities of disappearances and murders y the corrupt and criminal Mexican government throughout the country, The word “Ayotzinapa”, emblazoned on the bus, reminds us of the recent kidnappings of student teachers by the local police inn the state of Guerrero.
The bus driver is Rene Yanez, a leading Chicano artist, curator and cultural activist, and co- founder of Galeria de la Raza. Rene was the first curator to introduce renowned Mexican artists Frida Kahlo to North American audiences in 1978. Frida travels with him everywhere he goes. Rene is currently being evicted from his long time Mission residence, so we give him a permanent place on these walls. Next to Rene is Ralph’s luminous image. And then comes the school bus that appeared in the original mural, painted in 1988 with collaborating painter and friend Ricardo Anguia, from Mexico City. The Muni and the school bus are both carried by human legs that propel them through a scenery surrounded by traditional toys and children dressed as luchadores (wrestlers) as Aztec warriors fly overhead protecting them and remind us of our rich heritage.
In the words of Ralph Maradiaga: “The images I use in my work are a reflection of our culture, its people and its tradition. As artists we must share customs, lifestyles and imagery with one another. It is only through artistic, social and political ideologies that we ascertain and retain from a place in history and document it for our children.”
Not the end, aqui estamos y no nos vamos.
Tirso Gonzalez Araiza, April 26, 2015
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La Rumba No Para: The Chata Gutierrez Mural
© 2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
28’ x 22’, Acrylic on Wood
Mural Director: Lead artist Carlos “Kookie” Gonzalez in collaboration with “Walls of Respect” Youth Mural Project with artists Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado. Youth artists Juliette Flores, Jesus Rodriguez, Jordan Marlow, Nick Winstead and others. Precita volunteer artists, Felipe Hernandez, Riya Chandiramani, Pablo Ruiz, Gus and Oli Medina, Carmelo V. and many others.
Funding: Funded by California Arts Council
Location: 24th And South Van Ness
© 2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
28’ x 22’, Acrylic on Wood
Mural Director: Lead artist Carlos “Kookie” Gonzalez in collaboration with “Walls of Respect” Youth Mural Project with artists Max Marttila and Fred Alvarado. Youth artists Juliette Flores, Jesus Rodriguez, Jordan Marlow, Nick Winstead and others. Precita volunteer artists, Felipe Hernandez, Riya Chandiramani, Pablo Ruiz, Gus and Oli Medina, Carmelo V. and many others.
Funding: Funded by California Arts Council
Location: 24th And South Van Ness
Description:
Chata was Chicana/Mexican American, thus the Aztec and pre-Columbian imagery and motifÉ..she loved Salsa, Afro-Cuban and Carribean musicÉas such, Plena dancers from Puerto Rico and Cuban Rumba dancers are pictured dancing to the beat of the conga players (Rumberos)
Chata Gutierrez portrait. Chata did "Con Clave" radio show on KPOO 89.5FM "Peoples Radio" É.for 40 years she played the best Salsa and Latin Jazz every Saturday from 12pm to 3pm. She interviewed the greats such as Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Eddie Palmieri etcÉÉshe opened the station to community folks to talk about issues affecting the barrio community like police brutality, employment, educationÉ.she was well loved by the community. She supported the arts, music, local musicians and Latino cultureÉÉthe drummers pictured are drummers who originally started the Rumba tradition by playing congas in the Mission Dist. Dolores Park in the late 60's thru the 70'sÉ.they went on to establish careers in musicÉ..pictured is John Santos, musical historian and Latin Jazz recording artist, Oscar Soltero who plays with Avance' (salsa group), Raul Rekow of Santana, Karl Perazzo of Santana, Annette Aguilar and Richard "Bandido" Segovia, leader of long time Latin rock band named "Bandido".
Chata Gutierrez portrait. Chata did "Con Clave" radio show on KPOO 89.5FM "Peoples Radio" É.for 40 years she played the best Salsa and Latin Jazz every Saturday from 12pm to 3pm. She interviewed the greats such as Tito Puente, Mongo Santamaria, Eddie Palmieri etcÉÉshe opened the station to community folks to talk about issues affecting the barrio community like police brutality, employment, educationÉ.she was well loved by the community. She supported the arts, music, local musicians and Latino cultureÉÉthe drummers pictured are drummers who originally started the Rumba tradition by playing congas in the Mission Dist. Dolores Park in the late 60's thru the 70'sÉ.they went on to establish careers in musicÉ..pictured is John Santos, musical historian and Latin Jazz recording artist, Oscar Soltero who plays with Avance' (salsa group), Raul Rekow of Santana, Karl Perazzo of Santana, Annette Aguilar and Richard "Bandido" Segovia, leader of long time Latin rock band named "Bandido".
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"Presente: A Tribute to the Mission Community Mural"
© 2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
15’ x 32’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Fred Alvarado and Max Marttila with the Urban Youth Arts Program
Funding: Funded by California Arts Council
Location: Folsom and 24th (Philz Coffee)
© 2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
15’ x 32’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Fred Alvarado and Max Marttila with the Urban Youth Arts Program
Funding: Funded by California Arts Council
Location: Folsom and 24th (Philz Coffee)
Description:
This mural, part of our Walls of Respect project is about our respect and admiration for some of our local mission heroes that our local youth participants identified. These heroes include local teachers, organization founders and long standing businesses that we feel represent the pride and history of the 24th St. corridor and Mission District. The framework of this mural is composed of newspaper articles, more specifically those of the local paper El Tecolote. Featured up top are the founders of the 45 year old publication as well as a portrait of Alfonso Textudor, a local poet and Tecolote journalist who recently passed. Scattered throughout the mural are drums that represent Loco Bloco the arts-music, dance, drumming, stilt-walking and theater organization that has been educating youth for the past couple decades. Martha Estrella is shown underneath the word “teachers”, a popular educator from Everett Middle School who has also taught art, dance classes and more. Susan Cervantes, founder of Precita Eyes Muralists is also highlighted as an artist, teacher and role model for many local and international muralists and activists. Another artist depicted in a paper column is Michael V. Rios, original Mission muralist and designer, popular for his Santana banners, CD covers and murals. Businesses depicted below include Mission Skate Shop and La Palma Mexica-tessen. The background of our mural ends with a crowd of people walking up Bernal Heights, in mourning of those who were taken away from us too soon, Alex Nieto and Amilcar Lopez, whose faces are shown in the grass of the hill.
We chose to use text reminiscent of comic books to help contextualize our main concepts. These words are Presente (keep us in mind, we are here), Respect, Family, Teachers and the “cosmic race”. Other text included in the mural will be small factoids about our highlighted heroes.
We chose to use text reminiscent of comic books to help contextualize our main concepts. These words are Presente (keep us in mind, we are here), Respect, Family, Teachers and the “cosmic race”. Other text included in the mural will be small factoids about our highlighted heroes.
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"Uplift Da City Mural"
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
45’ x 10’, spray paint on stucco
Mural Director: Max Marttila and Xavier Schmidt with the UYA program
Contributing Artists:
Location: Royan Hotal, 405 Valencia St, SF CA
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
45’ x 10’, spray paint on stucco
Mural Director: Max Marttila and Xavier Schmidt with the UYA program
Contributing Artists:
Location: Royan Hotal, 405 Valencia St, SF CA
Description:
A vibrant colorful city is being lifted up through the brick rubble by two hands to represent our collective struggle to retain our urban community despite violence from ourselves, the police, racist mentalities and gentrification. A double headed dragon curls through the buildings until they emerge to face each other. The dragon is a symbol of energy and luck as well as a tribute towards asian and mayan cultures. This Mural was designed and painted by the Urban Youth Arts Class.
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"A Better World...Through our Eyes Mural"
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
9.25’ x 5.75’, acrylic on sheet rock
Mural Director: Ellen Silva
Contributing Artists: Aptos Middle School, 8th Grade Advanced Art Class
Location: Aptos Middle School, 105 Aptos Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94127
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
9.25’ x 5.75’, acrylic on sheet rock
Mural Director: Ellen Silva
Contributing Artists: Aptos Middle School, 8th Grade Advanced Art Class
Location: Aptos Middle School, 105 Aptos Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94127
Description:
A Better World...Through our Eyes Mural by the Advanced Art Class at Aptos Middle School, taught by Eric Pasqual, show the students ideas of how their creativy makes a better world. From painting and music through sports adn science, each student drew their favorite mode of creativity. The class orked exceptionally well as a team, and were diligent and careful painters until the end! A delight to work with them and their teacher.
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"Greetings from the Past Mural"
© 2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
7’ x 19’, acrylic on wood
Directed by Cory Devereaux
In collaboration with Spotlight for the Arts: Ian, Izza, Julia, Keying, Koko, Mosiah, Trayvon, & Vicky
Sponsored by California For The Arts. Funded by San Francisco Department of Children, Youth, & Their Families.
Special thanks to PEM Volunteers Kinsey Hart & Alizia Gonzalez (Intern), & Jill & Alma, & Natalie, & Jon & Alina
© 2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
7’ x 19’, acrylic on wood
Directed by Cory Devereaux
In collaboration with Spotlight for the Arts: Ian, Izza, Julia, Keying, Koko, Mosiah, Trayvon, & Vicky
Sponsored by California For The Arts. Funded by San Francisco Department of Children, Youth, & Their Families.
Special thanks to PEM Volunteers Kinsey Hart & Alizia Gonzalez (Intern), & Jill & Alma, & Natalie, & Jon & Alina
Description:
“Greetings from the Past/Greetings from the Future” comments on our changing San Francisco community, and its struggles and triumphs as seen in two oversized postcards. On the left-hand garage door, a scallop-edged card houses images from the past. Although somewhat cloaked in darkness, memories from the past show the culture, soul, and community of the people who live and thrive in this quickly changing place. We see iconic San Francisco Victorian houses (with one silhouette in an upper window), a backyard swing set with tire seat, schoolbooks (a nod to College Track, the triumphant after-school program that helps low-income students prepare, go to, and graduate from college), and a fluttering butterfly.
From the chimney smoke of the old houses emerges the hair, and then the figure of an “unbothered” woman. Historically, she is Peace. As she rises from the flower garden at her feet, Peace looks to the future with calmness. Fortifying her, we see messages of Freedom, Community, Home, Change, and Hope so that she is at peace with whatever may happen.
The future, as depicted in the postcard on the right side garage door, while different from the past, is not bleak. Although new buildings may supplant the old ones, the San Francisco skyline, and the Bay Bridge still dominate in the background. Bicycles replace cars, and even Mohawk-wearing cyclists help create a cleaner environment. The farthest right bicycle wheel morphs into the symbol of feminism as it accentuates gender equality.
In the center of this postcard, the left fist rises, representing solidarity and empowerment. The fist does not reflect any one particular skin tone. It is purple, indicating any, and all people. The fist clenches down on the money mongers with their dollar sign eyes. The money symbols represent the escalating cost of living in San Francisco. Beyond the current difficulties of gentrification, powerful messages come forward: Guts Not Fear, Solidarity, and 99% Matter, and the sun, a symbol of hope, still shines from the upper right-hand corner.
Uniting the two postcards are three interconnected symbols found in the center of the mural. The serpent wraps itself around the Sutro Tower in a caduceus style as it sheds its skin. The snake is Mercy, however, the caduceus can also represent healing. The tower also intertwines with the snake, and it is a symbol of strength and hope. The anchor carries the message (that come what may) “I Refuse to Sink”.
Through the entire mural, and moving left to right, there are the horizontal lines of the spectrum. At times the line is a road, white caps, or dots. The spectrum is not black and white; it is fluid. The dots and the lines are also comments on change, since change is cyclical and messy.
From the chimney smoke of the old houses emerges the hair, and then the figure of an “unbothered” woman. Historically, she is Peace. As she rises from the flower garden at her feet, Peace looks to the future with calmness. Fortifying her, we see messages of Freedom, Community, Home, Change, and Hope so that she is at peace with whatever may happen.
The future, as depicted in the postcard on the right side garage door, while different from the past, is not bleak. Although new buildings may supplant the old ones, the San Francisco skyline, and the Bay Bridge still dominate in the background. Bicycles replace cars, and even Mohawk-wearing cyclists help create a cleaner environment. The farthest right bicycle wheel morphs into the symbol of feminism as it accentuates gender equality.
In the center of this postcard, the left fist rises, representing solidarity and empowerment. The fist does not reflect any one particular skin tone. It is purple, indicating any, and all people. The fist clenches down on the money mongers with their dollar sign eyes. The money symbols represent the escalating cost of living in San Francisco. Beyond the current difficulties of gentrification, powerful messages come forward: Guts Not Fear, Solidarity, and 99% Matter, and the sun, a symbol of hope, still shines from the upper right-hand corner.
Uniting the two postcards are three interconnected symbols found in the center of the mural. The serpent wraps itself around the Sutro Tower in a caduceus style as it sheds its skin. The snake is Mercy, however, the caduceus can also represent healing. The tower also intertwines with the snake, and it is a symbol of strength and hope. The anchor carries the message (that come what may) “I Refuse to Sink”.
Through the entire mural, and moving left to right, there are the horizontal lines of the spectrum. At times the line is a road, white caps, or dots. The spectrum is not black and white; it is fluid. The dots and the lines are also comments on change, since change is cyclical and messy.
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"Hoover Middle School Mural"
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
15.3’ x 8.3’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Ellen Silva
Contributing Artists: 8th Grade Advanced Art Class
Location: 2290 14th Avenue, (at Santiago) San Francisco, CA 94116
©2015 Precita Eyes Muralists
15.3’ x 8.3’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Ellen Silva
Contributing Artists: 8th Grade Advanced Art Class
Location: 2290 14th Avenue, (at Santiago) San Francisco, CA 94116
Description:
This Mural by the Advanced Art Class, taught by Margaret Pai, depicts the students many heritages on the left, (surrounded by neighborhood icons of San Francisco) inspiring them to endless future possibilities (images of outer space) on the right.
San Francisco icons include: Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 signs, Golden Gate Bridge, Pyramid Building, and entrance to Chinatown. Cultural symbols include Thanksgiving turkeys, bowl of ramen, plate of sushi, Christmas Trees, flags, and banners.
Future possibilities include: graduation from high School, college, drivers license, careers in technology, law enforcement, the arts, sports, law, medicine, acting, and more.
San Francisco icons include: Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 signs, Golden Gate Bridge, Pyramid Building, and entrance to Chinatown. Cultural symbols include Thanksgiving turkeys, bowl of ramen, plate of sushi, Christmas Trees, flags, and banners.
Future possibilities include: graduation from high School, college, drivers license, careers in technology, law enforcement, the arts, sports, law, medicine, acting, and more.
2014
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Our Mission No Eviction Youth Arts performance
©2014 Precita Eyes Muralists
©2014 Precita Eyes Muralists
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Diversity in Progress UYA
©2014 Precita Eyes Muralists
8'10" x 130', acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Eli Lippert and Max Martilla
Contributing Artists: Youth Artists
Location: 17th and Capp Streets, San Francisco, CA Lebanon and Jayous Palestine
©2014 Precita Eyes Muralists
8'10" x 130', acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Eli Lippert and Max Martilla
Contributing Artists: Youth Artists
Location: 17th and Capp Streets, San Francisco, CA Lebanon and Jayous Palestine
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"Play, Run and Have Fun Mural"
©2014 Precita Eyes Muralists
10’ x 80’, Acrylic on Stucco
Mural Director: Fred Alvarado and Max Martilla in collaboration with families and youth
©2014 Precita Eyes Muralists
10’ x 80’, Acrylic on Stucco
Mural Director: Fred Alvarado and Max Martilla in collaboration with families and youth
Description:
The Minnie and Lovie Ward Recreational Center Mural Project is a sports themed mural . It was developed over two community drawing workshops where participants where asked to list images and ideas for the mural. The images depict sports and activities played at the park such as soccer, basketball, football, ping pong and baseball. The mural also illustrates the community and the great centers of higher learning around the area like, San Francisco State and The City College of San Francisco. The mural shares the theme of outer space which symbolizes the communities hopes of achieving and accomplishing. Symbols such as the star, which is a reference to a local business started by youth from the community, reflects how the community can shine in different states, be it academics, athletics, or economics. An over arching idea for this project is to convey the idea of Play, Run, and Have Fun, following the belief that a healthy community is active, engaged and participating to make a better community.
2013
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"Mission Playground Mural"
©2013 Precita Eyes Muralists
Acrylic on stucco
Location: 19th and Valencia, San Francisco, CA 94110
©2013 Precita Eyes Muralists
Acrylic on stucco
Location: 19th and Valencia, San Francisco, CA 94110
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"Estria Battle / Life is Living Festival Mural"
© 2013 Precita Eyes Muralists
Location: Oakland, CA
© 2013 Precita Eyes Muralists
Location: Oakland, CA
Description:
Estria Battle / Life is Living Festival on Oct 12, 2013 at DeFremery Park in Oakland.
2011 and Earlier
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“Days Before The City”
©2011 Precita Eyes Muralists
Acrylic and Aerosol Paint
Designed and Painted by: the Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: Balmy Alley, San Francisco 2010-2011
©2011 Precita Eyes Muralists
Acrylic and Aerosol Paint
Designed and Painted by: the Urban Youth Arts Program
Location: Balmy Alley, San Francisco 2010-2011
Description
“Days Before The City” is a mural painted to show homage and pay respects to the elements of nature in the San Francisco Bay Area, and to represent a time before the city life that consumes the area. The background of the mural is made up of a solid hillside wall showing many different layers of dirt to represent the passing and changing of time. Oversized plants, flowers and creatures span across the wall in a larger than life scale to stress the importance that nature has in our world, and the words Days Before are camouflaged into the scene creating a message for the viewer, as one people, to remember where we came from.
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True Colors- Canal Alliance
©2011 Precita Eyes
©2011 Precita Eyes
Description
There is a lot of culture in our community, but have you ever stopped and taken a look at it? Students from Canal Alliance did and they wanted to show it in a mural. They all came up with this great idea that not only shows their culture, but their lives. This little place, the Canal, is full of Hispanics. This place also has small proportions of every four corners of the world. This is not just some random drawing. It has a story. People from other home countries migrated to the United States. They started as thirteen colonies. They fought for their independence from Great Britain and became the United States. The West Coast was a part of Mexico. Mexicans were already here in the United States, even in the Canal neighborhood area. The United States wanted to get bigger and conquered the West Coast. During the years the United States became stronger and everyone in the world wanted to have a little piece of the American Dream. This is where our mural comes from, a little place called the Canal. People from the North, South, and Central America have migrated to the United States. Coming to the U.S. is not easy because people suffer by not eating, walking for days, and jumping the border to have a better future with their families. In the mural the kids playing soccer have mascots representing the different schools they go to in San Rafael, California. The cactus represents people who have traveled through the desert coming to the Canal. There is a road that turns into fabric that symbolizes the four corners of the world. Down at the bottom of the flower, there is a book that says, “I like to go to the Canal Alliance” and “Learning is an achievement in life.” This is what the students respect and look up to. The flower has two sides, a positive side, which is shown by the live leaves and a negative side, which is shown by the dead leaves. The leaves on the tree of the positive side have faces of our leaders. These leaders have changed our way of life. They have all given their lives for our better future. The leaders are Cesar Chavez, Martin Luther King, Rosa Parks, Che Guevara, Pancho Villa and Rigoberta Menchu. On the other side of the border there is an anti-gun meaning that we don’t want any violence, only peace in the Canal. The heart symbolizes the lives that have passed away in the Canal and that won’t be forgotten. We put our native plant, the Pickleweed in the mural because we are surrounded by weeds. We are surrounded by the most famous bridge in the world, the Golden Gate Bridge and we are also connected to the Richmond/San Rafael Bridge. If you look up in the right hand corner of the mural you will see the earth that has a yin yang line in the middle that represents our earth’s balance. Recycling is part of what we do at the Canal Alliance and what we are telling others to do to help our environment. We are still not there yet, but we are definitely going to get there in the future. The earth gives us the power and strength we need everyday. The pyramid gives power to the earth which symbolizes the strength of our people and our ancient culture. You can see the roots of the pyramid in the lightning which are causing it to rise up. In the central part of the mural there is the face of a beautiful woman. If you look into her right eye, you can see what the students want in their future-a diploma! In her left eye she cried because of stress and fear. Her face is made of many puzzle pieces of various colors of skin tones and races. She rises out of a sunflower that symbolizes hope for the future.
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"AKQA Mural"
©2010 Precita Eyes Muralists
©2010 Precita Eyes Muralists
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"Lebanon Palestine Project"
©2009 Precita Eyes Muralists
22’ x 28’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Fred Alvarado
Contributing Artists: Designed and Painted by the Communities of Alma Shab and Bientig Beil, Lebanon and Jayous Palestine with contributing muralists Eli Lippert, Missy Ablin, Pedro Navarro, Mogens Molina, and Ernesto Aguilar
Location: Alma Shab and Bientig Beil, Lebanon and Jayous Palestine
©2009 Precita Eyes Muralists
22’ x 28’, acrylic on stucco
Mural Director: Fred Alvarado
Contributing Artists: Designed and Painted by the Communities of Alma Shab and Bientig Beil, Lebanon and Jayous Palestine with contributing muralists Eli Lippert, Missy Ablin, Pedro Navarro, Mogens Molina, and Ernesto Aguilar
Location: Alma Shab and Bientig Beil, Lebanon and Jayous Palestine