Project Overview: Over a period of 12 weeks that began in September of 2013, The Coalition facilitated the creation of a community mural located in Downtown Santa Ana in the rear wall of MACRES FLORIST of Santa Ana, which engaged local artists, youth, business, and residents in the art-making process. The mural itself was composed of images gathered through and inspired by a community interview process, with the final piece representing the dreams and aspirations of Santa Ana residents.
Community Context: Why is this mural important? As Downtown Santa Ana continues to undergo a number of important transformations, it’s essential that local residents and businesses take a role in the process and express their voices about the future of their city. With art taking an increasingly significant role in that future, art can serve as a powerful vehicle for community expression. Furthermore, the art creation process can be used to engage different communities, connect people, and actively participate in helping to change our community in the ways we want it to see it change.
The Mural Process: We conducted outreach in the area immediately surrounding the mural, inviting the participation of local residents and business owners. Community members were able to give their ideas for the mural, serve on volunteer committees, and/or help create art. In order to spark ideas, we started by asking the question, “What do you dream of?” or “En qué sueñas?” (The question was posed in both English and Spanish to invite bilingual participation.) After the outreach process was completed, the lead artists (Kimberly Duran and Elizabeth Cardenas Sevilla) then incorporated the collected words, stories, and ideas into the mural concept. An opening event was held to further inform and involve the community, as well as a celebration of the initiation of the mural. A final mural celebration was held to mark the accomplishment of all participants.
Who Was Involved:
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Workshop for Community Arts (WCA) is a community-based, artist-run organization located in Santa Ana, CA that facilitates creative workshops and events. WCA artists have expertise in multiple disciplines, including creative writing, visual art, music, and community organizing. They follow a project-based, collaborative approach and use their experience, resources, and craft to “re-imagine” what cultural and community engagement can look like.
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The Grain Project (TGP) promotes unified, healthy, sustainable communities through urban agriculture and public art. TGP offers collaborative and holistic programming, urban beautification, partnerships, and community building for self-sufficiency and empowerment.
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MC Gallery is committed to the research, production, presentation and interpretation of contemporary Latin American art. The gallery also supports emerging artists by offering opportunities and education that explore ideas at the junction of arts, performance, and culture. MC Gallery supports events tied to the community and always remains a crucible for new ideas.
In addition to these organizational partners, the Coalition involved many community leaders, arts administrators, students, educators, local artists and non-artists alike. Over 300 participants, Santa Ana community members from many different backgrounds, all worked together to make art and trasnform public spaces!
