The history of Oakland can be chronicled in many ways. Photographers have captured the quintessential culture of Oakland in an exhibit that documents neon signage.

There are neon signs from the '30s and '60s that still exist along buildings in Oakland - particularly along MacArthur and International Blvd. - or have been abandoned along with businesses long gone.

Now there is an exhibit that chronicles the historic urban landscape of Oakland through the lenses of seven photographers equally enamored by our unique city.

Paula Wirth, the coordinator of this exhibit said that she and fellow photographers Ken Duffy, David Gallagher, Devil Doll, Jef Pozkanzer, Neocles Serafimidis and Jeremy Brooks met through sharing their photos on Flickr, as all have a mutual compulsion to document old signage and urban architectural remnants in Oakland. 

The photographers will be showcasing their work from June 18 to August 18 at Woody's Cafe. The art opening is from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, June 18. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.

"In varying degrees, all of these subjects are 'lost' in the sense of being neglected or undervalued everyday treasures that have mysteriously survived to the present in the face of overwhelming pressures," Duffy said. "We have 'found' them through our contemporary photographs, which try to underscore the heritage our urban landscape represents for everyone."

Gallagher said he hopes that this exhibit will make people more aware of the small details that often go unnoticed and will inspire closer observation and "build an appreciation of vernacular artifacts from Oakland's past."

All photographers live in or near Oakland and have built up a constant artistic awareness to the city landscape.

For more information, visit www.flickr.com/groups/oaklandlostandfound/.