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In recent months during the final mural approval processes, Caltrans, the property owners of the freeway walls, has created a legal barrier and we are now unable to move forward.
WE NEED YOUR HELP NOW!!! Encourage Caltrans to approve the production of the next mural. Our underpasses are in a crisis state and present so many problems in our area. Reviving this public space through art and beauty means a stronger investment from Oakland residents to keep the city safe and respected by all.
The Oakland Super Heroes Project is in progress with the fourth large scale mural in West Oakland in a series of six murals to be painted under the 580 freeway. This project is a true community endeavor, which has enlisted the participation and enthusiasm of hundreds of our families and neighbors.
The murals address some of the deepest concerns in Oakland relaying concepts by students who designed superheroes that advocate for peace in the community.
A letter from AHC's Executive Director Amana Harris to:
State Representative Rob Bonta
State Senator Nancy Skinner
Governor Jerry Brown
State Representative Tony Thurmond
My name is Amana Harris and I am the executive director of Attitudinal Healing Connection (AHC). As you may know, AHC is a 27-year old non-profit organization based in West Oakland, whose mission is to empower individuals to be inspired through art, creativity and education.
You are a key public leader, and on behalf of AHC we ask that you publicly stand with us on this profound collective effort to accomplish the 4th mural in the Oakland Super Heroes Project: A series of artwork that rebuilds, inspires and strengthens our community. Governmental investment in public spaces, especially local and state government, can support and uplift our community.
In 2011, AHC created the Oakland Super Heroes Project engaging over 300 Youth in designing four of the six murals to be painted under the 580 freeway. This project is a true community endeavor, which has enlisted the participation and enthusiasm of hundreds of our families and neighbors.
While the entire community waits, AHC is making every effort to move forward in the completion of mural #4. The intended mural production timeline of March 2017 has now passed and our sense of urgency is weighing heavy on our hearts. Hoover students, the designers for the next mural have written letters, started petitions and are developing communication skills as advocate representatives for the community. Please see quotes below from student handwritten letters to Caltrans:
“I am so excited because we’re going to be the first elementary school to have our art in public, if it’s possible, if you can, it’s important to put our art in public because it can show peace, love, and respect.
Sincerely, T.J, 4th Grade
"It is important for the community to recognize elementary students’ work. We work hard to plan. We are very enthusiastic about this. We need your approval because we really want to inspire others and maybe others will inspire others. We are bright students and we can do it!"
Sincerely, Angelly, 5th Grade
In recent months during the final approval processes, Caltrans, the property owners of the freeway walls, requested a Moral Authority Copyright of the artwork imagery. This request is one that creates a legal barrier and we are now unable to move forward. Our underpasses are in a crisis state and present so many problems in our area. Art and beauty from the community and our children gives the public a stake in these neglected and blighted spaces. WE NEED YOUR HELP NOW!!!
We are reaching out to your colleagues as well and would urgently like to schedule a meeting. Thank you.