Bernal Library Art Project

BERNAL LIBRARY ART PROJECT FAQ

What is the history of the original mural?

Completed in 1982 by Arch Williams, working with Carlos Alcala and Jo Tucker, the Bernal Library mural project originated with former Bernal librarian Ruth McGinnis, community activist Kate Esposito and a volunteer neighborhood group.

Why is the mural being replaced by new artwork?

The 1982 mural was not maintained and could only be completely repainted, not restored. Many Bernal residents wanted to retain the mural, but many others thought the library façade should be restored to its original state -- without a mural.

How was this dispute resolved?

Although discussions about the fate of the mural date back to 2002, no city agency or commission was willing to make a decision once the community polarization was fully appreciated. In 2009, people on both sides of the dispute asked Supervisor David Campos to provide leadership to resolve the issue. In response, he convened a group with widely divergent views and brought in a mediator to find consensus.

What was the result?

After three months, six meetings, and 17 hours of deliberation, all parties signed a “Statement of Consensus” and agreed to move forward with the project based upon the principles articulated in this statement. The Statement of Consensus was presented to the community at a meeting in July 2010. Signatories were: Susan Cervantes, Supervisor David Campos, Larry Cruz, Monique Jaquez, Darcy Lee, Dan Martinez, Terry Milne, Ellen Morrison, Brandon Powell, Beth Roy, Michael Smith, Johanna Silva Waki, Giulio Sorro, Amy Trachtenberg, Mauricio Vela.

Are the signatories the same people who comprise the Bernal Library Art Project Task Force?

The volunteer Task Force [TF] is a subset of the signatory group: Larry Cruz, Monique Jaquez, Darcy Lee, Dan Martinez, Terry Milne, Brandon Powell, Beth Roy, Giulio Sorro, and the late Mauricio Vela. Joyce McKinney is not a member of the Task Force, but volunteered to help with documentation and communication.

Has the larger Bernal community been involved?

Hundreds of people have been involved in the broad discussion over several years. After the TF was formed and the Consensus Statement agreed, this phase was presented to the community in July 2010. The smaller TF continued to meet, although momentum was slowed with the untimely death of Mauricio Vela, a key member. Momentum was regained and Beth Roy again joined the group to enhance facilitation and decision-making. Two community meetings were held in February and March 2011 to enable the community to interact with the artists and the TF so that the final design will be informed by the community.

Is the Task Force compensated for its time?

Members of the Task Force are unpaid volunteers.

How does the Task Force work?

Members have been meeting weekly or bi-weekly since September 2010 using the principles and agreements in the Statement of Consensus to guide its work. In December, Gia Grant was hired as a consultant to manage implementation logistics, liaise with relevant city agencies and individuals, and prepare and submit grants.

How will the new artwork be funded?

It is envisioned that a combination of public and private money will fund the design, execution and maintenance of the new artwork. The non-profit Friends of the SF Public Library serves as fiscal agent. The TF will submit a Community Challenge grant application in April 2011, engage in private fundraising initiatives, and seek other grant opportunities.

How much of the library will have art on it?

This was determined through the consensus process and reflected in the Statement of Consensus:  “The artwork will engage the site and building on the south, east, and north sides as determined by the selected artist team after meetings and other processes with the community processes have taken place.”

Who are the artists who have been contracted to develop a design and how were they selected?

A widely disseminated invitation to apply was issued in December 2010 with an application deadline of January 12, 2011. After qualifications and portfolio reviews, several artists and artist teams were scheduled for standardized interviews. Colette Crutcher, Precita Eyes Muralists, and Reuben Rude were offered the opportunity to design the artwork.