Join us for further discussion about the Japantown History Mural final design, including follow-up from the May 30 Community Meeting.

BACKGROUND: The Japanese American Citizens League San Francisco Chapter, established more than 90 years ago, and Mission Arts 415, Inc. propose to paint a mural masterpiece on the high-traffic exterior wall space facing Geary Boulevard, in front of the Japantown Peace Plaza.

This large, vibrant mural project will be managed by Mission Art 415, a non-profit mural agency that has been creating and operating in San Francisco for 40 years. The mural artist is living legend Crayone who grew up in Japantown with assistance from local Japantown artists Derrick Higa and Brenden Oshima. The design team includes Lisa Brewer, CEO Mission Arts 415, Inc. and Randolph Bowes, Graphic Designs Engineer.

The impetus for this historic mural is the preservation of the storied history of a community’s resilience, as a vital cultural enclave in San Francisco despite upheavals and challenges to its survival. The subject of artwork will depict the historical timeline of a community, spotlighting and honoring influential persons/activists who contributed to the building of a cultural neighborhood. The background design will depict the history of SF Japantown, attract tourism and beautify the community through the power of exterior art. The addition of this mural as a destination attraction will generate revenue for small businesses, hotels and restaurants, support the value of art and celebrate our cultural heritage.