Oakland-based muralist collective Community Rejuvenation Project recently announced its latest effort in its ongoing “Healthy Living” campaign - a massive three-sided mural, commissioned by community partner People’s Grocery, at its headquarters on Seventh and Market streets.

The murals - painted by CRP artists Desi W.O.M.E., Mike Threesixty, Pancho Peskador, Release, Miss Ammo, Phil the Villain and Abakus, and comprising more than 3,500 sq. feet - officially will be unveiled during a community celebration and block party this Saturday, July 14 in West Oakland. Festivities and events include a rooftop DJ set by DJ Basta, live performances by CRP artists, garden planting and community clean-up.

“We are very honored to work with the People’s Grocery on this amazing project, which we hope will anchor this neighborhood for years to come," CRP founder DDesi W.O.M.E. said. "The mural sends a powerful message of proper nutrition, dietary awareness and eco-sustainability. Also, it happens to be right across the street from a McDonald’s restaurant, which represents everything the mural stands against – you couldn’t ask for a better location.”

“I was excited when the opportunity arose to work with CRP, because People's Grocery's work in food is all about translating culture into reality for folks living in poverty," People’s Grocery Executive Director Nikki Henderson said. "Seeing a painted representation of the deeper meaning behind our work will keep us motivated every day."

The People's Grocery headquarters is the third CRP collaboration with the Oakland-based organic food collective. In 2011, CRP was asked by PG to paint a mural in Dover Park for a Cesar Chavez celebration; in April 2012, the Chestnut Green Corridor was launched in West Oakland, featuring sidewalk planters adorned with portraits of inspirational civil rights leaders. CRP’s ongoing “Healthy Living” campaign also includes murals at the Phat Beets North Oakland retail store launched in May 2012; “Pedal Power to the People” at 60th and San Pablo; Richmond Spokes’ Spokeshop; and the Fremont High school cafeteria.

Founded in 2007, the Community Rejuvenation Project cultivates healthy communities through beautification, education and celebration. It achieves this mission through experiential programs that promote professional development, artistic and cultural expression and community empowerment. Since 2010, the collective has produced more than 50 murals in Oakland alone.

For more information about the Community Rejuvenation Project, email crpbayarea@gmail.com or call founder and director, Desi W.O.M.E at (510) 269-7840.

If You Go

Community Rejuvenation Project and People’s Grocery Present: Mural Unveiling

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 14
 
Where: 909 Seventh St. @Market, Oakland

Featuring: DJ Basta, live performance by CRP artists, garden planting and community clean-up.

Details: PeoplesGrocery.org