Saturday, September 22nd, 2012
7:00 PM
Our 35th Anniversary Gala “Reclaim & Renewal: Changing Lives Through Community Murals” will be held on September 22, 2012. in support of our on-going dedication to enrich and beautify urban environments, promote collaboration and community art education programs and culture for all ages. The gala event will be held at the landmark Meridian Gallery, 535 Powell Street, near Union Square.
The program features both silent and live art auctions of original artwork by a diverse group of bay area artists and muralists. In addition, the event will be infused with live music by Bruno Pelletier-Bacquaert Jazz Trio, DJ
Special K, surprise Butoh dancers and magic, mural performance, interactive activities and a video montage.
For Precita Eyes Muralists 35th Anniversary we are pleased to recognize and honor artist Estria Miyashiro with the “Cultural Warrior Award” for his contributions to community mural art.
Once a Precita Eyes Muralists Youth Arts Coordinator Estria Miyashiro has been spray painting for over 26 years, and is recognized around the world as a graffiti art living legend. As a pioneer in an arts movement that is arguably more influential than the classical renaissance, he is acknowledged as a valued historian, and also a community leader who is helping to awaken the social and political consciousness of graffiti art.
Originally from Honolulu, Estria moved to The Bay Area in the 1980′s during San Francisco’s “Golden Age Of Graffiti.” He is credited with pioneering important painting techniques, and is the originator of the “stencil tip.” His murals are known to be whimsical, cultural, political, and vibrant, with a focus and dedication to uplift the communities they serve. His graffiti art background has led him to produce innovative projects as an educator, entrepreneur, and social activist. From the city streets, to executive suites, Estria has worked with numerous non-profit organizations, as well as high profile corporations. In 2007, he co-founded the “Estria Invitational Graffiti Battle”, a nationwide urban art competition that honors and advances creativity in the Hip Hop arts. In 2010 He co-founded the Estria Foundation, a community-based organization dedicated to lasting systemic and social change.
“Art and music play a leading role in advancing culture & society. We must reshape youth from feeling disconnected, to being the voice and leaders of our community.” – Estria
Our 35th Anniversary Gala honors Susan Kelk Cervantes, master muralist and Founder and Director of Precita Eyes Muralists and Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center is a dedicated artist and pioneer of the SF community mural art movement in the Mission District of San Francisco for more than 50 years.
Susan established the Precita Eyes Muralists in 1977 with her late husband artist Luis Cervantes. Influenced by the Mujeres Muralistas, the first collaborative group of women muralists, Susan applies the same process of accessible, community art to all ages and abilities.
Susan with Precita Eyes muralists have painted more than 500 collaborative murals
considered some of the finest in the country. She is dedicated to enhancing the environment with social and life affirming themes through the creation of murals while involving and educating the community about the process of public community mural art. Her deep commitment to collaboration guarantees that the creative work produced is accessible, both physically and conceptually, to the people whose lives it impacts.
Susan’s mural work includes the Women's Building , Cesar Chavez Elementary School, Precita Valley Community Center , Mission Pool and several painted tile and mosaic murals.
Great fun for all!
Tickets are $35.
Bring your own bicycle and helmet, as well as water and snacks. This 3-hour (approximately) tour will include many of the Mission District's finest murals: Leonard R. Flynn School. Garfield Pool, Precita Valley Community Center, Cesar Chavez School, the "Mission Celebrations" mural and many more. Reservations are recommended; email tours@precitaeyes.org or call 415.285.2287 to reserve a space.
Precita Eyes Mural Arts Center, 2981 24th Street, near Harrison
$15/person
415.285.2287