We're starting our mural!
First, introductions: We are Debbie Koppman and Amanda Lockwood, two Dimond neighborhood Oakland artists , both teaching art at Sequoia Elementary School. We've been working for years to create a sustainable art program at our school ( A very special Oakland public school at that) and we want to create a large mural honoring the diverse history, culture, flora and fauna of the Dimond Neighborhood. The Dimond is a great little secret spot in Oakland, nestled against the hills and loaded with wonderful creative people... and it really does deserve honoring.
We've been struggling to find funding in these uncertain times, and recently received word that we are being granted the Innovators' Award from Oaklandish! Which means we've got enough money for one panel of the mural. It's to be painted on the Fruitvale wall of Farmer Joe's at Macarthur... and as of now it looks like we are good to begin painting in September! We'll be collaborating with our students in the classroom, and incorporating their vision of our community into the mural to create an exciting interpretation of one of Oakland's many unique neighborhoods, as seen through the eyes of its youngest inhabitants....
