The Oakland-based chapter of the Community Rejuvenation Project, also known as CRPBayArea, is proud to announce “Rejuvenation,” a new exhibition of paintings and photographs by CRP artists. As CRP founder Desi W.O.M.E. explains, “Rejuvenation is one of CRP’s core themes.” In naming this exhibit, he says, “we wanted to emphasize that aspect of what we do, which is more than just write our names on walls. The creation of art is both a sacred and spiritual practice in indigenous, native traditions, and our work is really about acknowledging that part of it and bringing it to inner-city environments which are in need of positive affirmations. We want to promote health, environmental awareness, and life, as well as a connection with our ancestors. Essentially, we are talking about rejuvenation of our communities and of ourselves through art. This is urban renewal at a grassroots level.”
The works represented in “Rejuvenation” show the tremendous range, diversity, and artistic ability of the CRP collective, consisting of talented muralists, calligraphers, painters, character artists, stencil artists, and photographers. Featured artists include Mike 360, Desi W.O.M.E., Dora Chavarria, Pescador, Daniel D. Zarazua, Daz, Elijah Pfotenhauer, Eric K. Arnold, Miss Ammo, Beats 737, Dave Young Kim, and collaborative works with aerosol legends P.H.A.S.E. 2 and Vulcan.
Many of the photographs document the creation process of CRP’s community murals, including the recent “Peace and Dignity” wall at 41st and International, in the heart of the Fruitvale District – a historically-Hispanic and Latino community plagued by gang violence and economic woes which is undergoing an identity crisis spurred by the onset of gentrification. Other works include “Oblivion,” a stunning portrait by Dave Young Kim in oil, acrylic and aerosol; “FlyGirlFest III,” an inked illustration of b-girls by Miss Ammo; and “Self City,” a study in perspective and cubism rendered by Elijah Photenhauer.
The exhibit will run through August 31st at Oakland’s freshest local hangout, the Layover, and its adjacent gallery, DepARTure. The First Friday opening reception is August 5th from 6-9pm and features live painting by CRP artists. Following the reception, be sure to stick around for an after-party featuring True Skool DJ Ren the Vinyl Archaeologist, spinning a set of classic hip-hop and breaks from 9pm-until the wee hours. Media sponsors include OaklandLocal, Fusicology, and True Skool.
