1. Community Bridges ‘Wisdom of Our Elders’ mural
2. Community Bridges unveils ‘Wisdom of Our Elders’ mural.
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Watsonville has welcomed a vibrant addition to its downtown public art scene with the unveiling of a new mural that pays tribute to the knowledge and experiences passed down through generations. Community Bridges recently revealed a stunning 225-foot by 32-foot mural titled “The Wisdom of Our Elders” at the entrance to its Elderday Adult Day Health Care Building on Main Street and West Lake Avenue. This colourful masterpiece, created by Chicano artists Jessica Carmen and Augie WK, collectively known as The Jams, features older adults of diverse backgrounds engaging in various activities with younger generations.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by members of the community, with Community Bridges’ marketing and communications manager, Tony Nunez-Palomino, describing the mural as a beautiful addition to the downtown area.
Nunez-Palomino explained that the concept for the mural was developed last year with the aim of capturing the essence of aging, the depth of knowledge acquired over a lifetime, the significance of history, and the strength of community bonds. After a rigorous selection process, The Jams were chosen for their ability to bring these themes to life in their artwork.
Community Bridges collaborated with Elderday staff, clients, and residents of the Watsonville Senior Center to ensure that the mural reflected the diversity of the community. Nunez-Palomino emphasised that the mural is more than just a piece of art; it is a celebration of life’s beauty and the joys of growing older.
A Celebration of Life and Community
Elderday, a program that provides activities for older individuals during the day while allowing them to maintain their independence at home, relocated its headquarters to Watsonville in October. Lois Sones, Elderday’s program director, highlighted the significance of the mural in enhancing the building and creating a welcoming environment for participants.
For Carmen, one of the artists behind the mural, the project held personal significance as her uncle was a part of the Elderday program. She and WK were inspired to create a meaningful piece of art that would resonate with the community and honour the stories shared by its members.
The mural features “memory bubbles” depicting parents and grandparents engaging in various activities with their children and grandchildren, such as gardening, reading, woodworking, fishing, knitting, playing music, and celebrating milestones. These elements were incorporated based on input from the community, resulting in a mural that truly reflects the shared experiences and values of Watsonville residents.
A Labour of Love
WK shared that the mural includes subtle details, such as a man carrying a calculator in his pocket as a nod to Carmen’s uncle who often carried one. Carmen explained that each portrait in the mural is a blend of different individuals, including their own family members and community members who left an impact on them.
Community Bridges CEO Ray Cancino revealed that the mural will soon feature a plaque with a QR code linking to a website with more information about the artwork and The Jams. Cancino expressed his pride in the mural, stating that it exemplifies the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
The “Wisdom of Our Elders” mural serves as a powerful reminder of the stories, traditions, and wisdom passed down through generations, enriching the fabric of the Watsonville community. Visit Communitybridges.org/elderday-mural for more information on this inspiring artwork.
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1. Community Bridges unveils Wisdom of Our Elders mural
2. Community Bridges unveils Wisdom of Our Elders mural Santa Cruz Sentinel.
