Oakland Daily Photo

Chapel of Memories

2012-01-31T00:01:00.000-08:00

Inspired by last week's post by Gene of Our Oakland, I decided to visit The Chapel of Memories for the first time. Not exactly difficult, since I live in the neighborhood. This facility is now owned by the Chapel of the Chimes which is a couple of blocks away. The columbarium appears to be from the same period and is of a similar style. This is the first urn you see when you enter these doors:

The various rooms have names like Prayer, Remembrance, Psalm, and Rest and are lined in glass fronted niches.

The stained glass ceilings are a lovely touch and allow in natural light. My favorite room had Della Robbia type faience rondelles.

Like the Chapel of Chimes, the Chapel of Memories has multiple levels and usually a place to sit and think a while.

For more cemetery wanderings visit Julie's fascinating meme Taphophile Tragics.

Monday Mural: Gateway Market

2012-01-29T20:00:00.000-08:00

Gateway Market is located in the Golden Gate district on San Pablo Avenue near 59th Street. Their advertising mural is new and full of local references including the Oakland A's logo. I didn't find a signature but I'm sure it's hidden in the mural somewhere. Below is a close-up of the W to show you the detail and humor you can find in the mural.

Thank you, «Louis La Vache», for alerting me to this new addition to the mural scene.

If you like murals or have a mural you'd like to post, this meme's for you. Just follow the Linky steps below. You get to decide what constitutes a mural. Be sure to link back to this blog and visit your fellow posters. Can't wait to see the mural finds posted this week.

flying near the cuckoo's nest

2012-01-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

Driving down 7th Street in West Oakland I spied this amusing storefront. Apparenty Lady Cuckoo designs and makes clothing from recycled materials. You can find her stuff at local flea markets, in her Etsy shop, and in her collage factory. Didn't go in because of my impeccable timing, the shop was closed.

ABC Wednesday: B is for Brown Sugar Kitchen

2012-01-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

BSK is situated in a heavily industrial section of West Oakland. It's housed in a triangular shaped clapboard building on a wedge of land on Mandela Parkway. Nothing special to look at. Then you enter.

Open for breakfast and lunch, it draws people from all over the city and even from that bigger city across the Bay. Think Southern heritage cooking meets a French trained chef and you have an idea of the quality of the fare. Since I was there for breakfast, I can definitely recommend the waffles. Check out their menu and try not to salivate while reading it. (The interior photo taken from the BSK website). And definitely visit ABC Wednesday for more takes on the letter "B".

Home of Peace Cemetery

2012-01-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

One of the best things about having a CDP blog is that you learn more about your own town. Julie's new meme Taphophile Tragics prompted me to look for more Oakland cemeteries. Thus I found Home of Peace Cemetery in East Oakland on Fairfax Avenue off High Street. It is located in a residential neighborhood and is a dedicated Jewish cemetery. Although I worked in East Oakland for many years, I had never heard of it.

Unlike the much larger Mt. View Cemetery, the headstones here are of modest size, the landscaping is spare, and there are no grandiose tombs or family crypts. But it is an active cemetery with recent interments. Most of the headstones are in English, some are in Hebrew, and a few are in Russian.

The earliest grave marker I found was from 1905. This is the most humble grave marker I saw and thought it very touching. I somehow think this was according to Mr. Posner's wishes.

You can see there is still room for more burials. The steepness of the site gives the visitor a view of the Bay.

Thank you, Julie for nudging me to look harder in my own community. For more views and commentary on cemeteries from around the world, visit Taphophile Tragics.

Monday Mural: in the spirit of a connected community

2012-01-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

This is a new mural on the back of a building that faces the Nimitz freeway near the 23rd Avenue on ramp. I noticed it only a few weeks ago and it took me a while to figure out how to access it. It's not that easy to do when you're driving 65 mph! It is painted by J. Medlin who says it was inspired by the East Oakland Boxing Association and Carrie's Touch which supports African-American women with breast cancer.

If you like murals or have a mural you'd like to post, this meme's for you. Just follow the Linky steps below. You get to decide what constitutes a mural. Be sure to link back to this blog and visit your fellow posters.

Weekend Reflection: Montclair Barbershop

2012-01-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

The interior of this barbershop is far more interesting than the reflection. Wondering where you can get your flattop shaped? Or your suave razor cut freshened? This is the place. No frou frou salon here. Looks like a time warp, right? For more reflections, visit James' meme Weekend Reflections.

quai side

2012-01-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

After walking around the old docks near the Port, I found myself drawn to rust and decay. It helped that the afternoon was mild and the weather clear. Tonight or tomorrow rain is due. So far this has been one of the driest winters on record. Despite concerns, most of us have enjoyed (sometimes guiltily) the sunny skies.

ABC Wednesday: A is for Actual Cafe

2012-01-18T00:01:00.000-08:00

Today starts a new round of ABC Wednesday. I thought I'd try and show coffee shops and restaurants around town during this round. Today we start with Actual Cafe on San Pablo Avenue and Alcatraz Avenue. Actual Cafe has been a positive force in this transitional neighborhood ever since it opened in 2009. It offers free wifi, places to park bicycles indoors, and frequent artist events; it serves as a magnet for those who live in the area. The cafe is also a voice for the parklet movement that's gaining hold in the Bay Area. All in all a comfortable place to visit and stay a while. For more takes on "A", please visit ABC Wednesday.

blue and white tiles

2012-01-17T00:01:00.000-08:00

More Oakland tiled buildings. This one is on San Pablo Avenue at about 59th St.

Monday Mural: MLKing Jr. Day

2012-01-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

Today is the federal holiday honoring the life and works of Martin Luther King Jr. Many images of him can be found around Oakland. This one happens to be on a wall that faces the street named after him.

Several bloggers have been posting their own murals on Monday and linking back to each other. They have encouraged me to start a Linky where we can all gather to post our murals. You get to decide what constitutes a mural. Just follow the Linky directions below and post away. Be sure and visit fellow mural posters and please link back to this blog. Since this is my first attempt at a Linky, there may be glitches. I'll do what I can to "unglitch" them.

Weekend Reflection: at the museum

2012-01-14T07:24:00.000-08:00

A friend and I went to the Richard Misrach and John Muir exhibits at the Oakland Museum. Afterward, we had a quick nosh in the restaurant where I saw this reflection. Seemed perfect for the holiday season and for James' meme Weekend Reflections.

ABC Wednesday: Z is for zoo

2012-01-11T00:01:00.000-08:00

I don't go to the zoo often, but when I do I get a kick out of the primates. The Oakland Zoo is known for providing naturalistic habitats for its animals. Visit ABC Wednesday for global takes on "Z". Join us next week when we start a new round.

chapel of the chimes

2012-01-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Chapel of the Chimes is situated directly outside the gates of Mt. View Cemetery. It was designed by Julia Morgan who is most well-known as the architect of Hearst Castle in San Simeon. Later Aaron Green, a student of Frank Lloyd Wright, made sympathetic additions to the Morgan building. This building is primarily a columbarium but also offers other modes of "end of life services." The building is kind of a warren filled with stairwells, interior gardens, fountains, and stained glass ceilings. Besides funeral services, monthly Jazz concerts and various literary events also occur here.

Did you know that in the funeral business the most expensive niches are those at eye level? And the least expensive are those near the floor and ceiling? Here's a tip I was given: Never buy the cremation urn before you buy the niche, otherwise it may not fit. Good to know. For more cemetery musings from around the world, visit Taphophile Tragics, a new meme from Sydney Eye.

Monday Mural: civilizations crossroad

2012-01-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

This mural is under the 580 freeway near the MacArthur BART station. It was done in 2004 by Ernesto Olmos and José Rodriguez. Find more murals here, here, here, here and here.

end of day

2012-01-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

Taken at the Middle Shoreline Park in West Oakland. San Francisco is on the horizon line. Submitted to Skywatch Friday, Weekend Reflections, and SOOC Sunday.

time warp

2012-01-05T00:03:00.000-08:00

Spotted in Montclair Village late yesterday afternoon. The restoration looks perfect right down to the raccoon tail (no doubt faux fur) on the radio antenna.

ABC Wednesday: Y is for youth

2012-01-04T00:48:00.000-08:00

For the fashion forward toddler on your gift list. Spotted at the Temescal-Telegraph street fair last summer. Visit ABC Wednesday for more takes on the letter "Y".

end of the trail

2012-01-03T00:19:00.000-08:00

This tombstone was spotted at Evergreen Cemetery in East Oakland. While I was not able to find information about this family, the image on the gravestone is the iconic End of the Trail by James Fraser. Evergreen Cemetery is best known as the final resting place for many of the victims of the Jonestown tragedy. For more cemetery wanderings, visit Julie's new meme Taphophile Tragics.

Monday Mural: Street Tattoo

2012-01-02T01:05:00.000-08:00

This large mural celebrating the cultural diversity of Oakland is under the 980 freeway on San Pablo Avenue and 22nd St. It was done in 1982 which makes it one of the oldest Oakland murals I've encountered. Street Tattoo is the name given by the artists. It's beautifully executed but in terrible shape due to long exposure to water runoff. I've driven this street countless times and only today noticed it for the first time. How is that possible? For more murals, click here, here, and here. I think a mural meme is in the works. Would you participate?

Weekend Reflection: Lake Merritt

2011-12-31T00:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday at Lake Merritt. Right after I publicly bemoaned the lack of rain, it rained lightly during the night and on and off today. Although much appreciated, we have a very long way to go before we reach our seasonal average. For more reflections, visit James' meme Weekend Reflections.

Skywatch Friday: lake at dusk

2011-12-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

Lake Merritt at dusk with the Federal Building in the background. The Necklace of Lights is beginning to glow along the lake front. A close inspection reveals there's more than a 100 birds in this shot. Still no rain, which is not a good sign. For more sky views from around the globe, visit Skywatch Friday.

temple aglow

2011-12-29T00:01:00.000-08:00

The Mormon Temple in the East Oakland hills, is a landmark seen from most vantage points in the East Bay.

ABC Wednesday: X is for xyclo

2011-12-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

Xyclo is a local Vietnamese restaurant named after the pedaled rickshaw of VietNam. It's a popular place that features an innovative menu. This picture was taken during the annual Halloween parade and trick o' treat fest on Piedmont Avenue. For more takes on "X" visit ABC Wednesday.

guardian angel

2011-12-27T00:01:00.000-08:00

This graceful sculpture sits atop the Charles Crocker tomb in Mt. View Cemetery. It has previously been featured here. The Crocker name, well known in California, is associated with banking and railroads. Mt. View Cemetery, established in 1863 and designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, was developed as an ecumenical site that welcomed all races and religions. It also embodied the Transcendentalist philosophy of man as being of nature rather than being separate from it. The cemetery was intended to be a natural park and to serve as more than a burial ground. Today it is very much occupied by the living as well as the dead. People come to exercise, walk their dogs, attend concerts and holiday celebrations, bird watch, picnic and honor their family members who have gone before. You frequently hear bagpipes playing as part of funeral ceremonies.

This cemetery has been featured many times in this blog, which makes Julie's new meme a perfect fit. She has just launched Taphophile Tragics to showcase the historical and artistic aspects of cemeteries that make them fascinating to so many of us. Stop by to see what's on display.

Monday Mural: magical animals

2011-12-26T00:01:00.000-08:00

Early in November I showed you this mural in progress by Thomas Christopher Haag. It was recently finished and fairly glows in its space. He's wrapped the mural around to the front corner of the building as well. It's hard not to like it, especially his presentation of magical animals. More murals can be found here, here, and here. Much to my surprise, this is my 501st post.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-24T19:24:00.000-08:00

ABC Wednesday: W is for wrought iron

2011-12-21T00:01:00.000-08:00

This is the entry gate to Mt. View Cemetery. I was pleased that this night photo picked up the the gilt that adorns the gate. And the silhouettes on the ground. For more takes on "W" visit Mrs. Nesbitt's meme, ABC Wednesday. We're close to starting a new round; think about joining us.

waning light

2011-12-20T00:01:00.000-08:00

The sun had set when I snapped this. It wasn't until later that I saw the far cluster of headstones that seemed to be glowing.

Monday Mural: The Lord is my Shephard

2011-12-19T00:01:00.000-08:00

The St. Vincent de Paul Community Center has recently added murals painted by local clients based on the 23rd Psalm. The artistry is naïf but heartfelt. Go here, here, and here for more murals.

Weekend Reflection: Middle Shoreline Park

2011-12-17T00:15:00.000-08:00

We're back to a dry spell with chilly weather. At the Middle Shoreline Park in West Oakland, the waters were calm and the low sun cast a golden light. For more reflections, visit James' meme Weekend Reflections.

primary colors

2011-12-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

It's been gray and raining. But the sight of these chairs seemed to lift the gloom. A bonus is the deco era tiles on the facade.

ABC Wednesday: V is for verklempt

2011-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Verklempt is a wonderful Yiddish word meaning "choked up with emotion." That's what I thought this chicken might be feeling knowing he's soon to be dinner. Caught this in the window of Maison d'Etre on College Avenue. It made me laugh. For more takes on "V" visit the variety of contributions to ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: Virgin de Guadalupe

2011-12-12T00:01:00.000-08:00

Today is the feast day of La Virgin de Guadalupe, an icon so important to Mexican culture. This mural was done with glass mosaic tesserae, possibly under the guidance of the nearby Institute of Mosaic Art, on a mural wall in Jingletown. Check out links to other murals posted today here, here, and here.

Weekend Reflection: bookstore reflection

2011-12-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

I really like the tall angel in local bookstore Black Swan's window. And then noticed the reflection of St. Leo's Church across the street. Seemed like a good match. For more reflection photos, visit Weekend Reflections.

Skywatch Friday: heavenly view

2011-12-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

This is the view you get once you climb the stairway featured yesterday. The skies have been clear and the weather chilly. For more sky views from around the world, visit Skywatch Friday.

stairway to heaven

2011-12-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

Walk up these stairs; catch your breath; walk along the upper path; veer to the right. Voila! A fantastic view of the bay. Catch your breath again.

ABC Wednesday: U is for ubiquitous

2011-12-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

For more takes on "U" be sure and visit ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: Marshall Taylor

2011-12-05T00:01:00.000-08:00

Spotted this mural while driving down 7th Street in West Oakland yesterday. It is on the wall of Bikes4Life a community business that works with youth.

SOOC: shoreline park

2011-12-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

After two days of intense wind, the weather has turned mild. The clear air and late afternoon sun make everything sparkle. Including the cranes at Shoreline Park in West Oakland. For more scenes straight out of the camera, visit SOOC.

Weekend Reflection: commentary

2011-12-03T00:01:00.000-08:00

Rare Bird on Piedmont Avenue has this arresting window display. The shop's owner organizes the 3rd Thursday Art Walk on the Avenue. This shop was previously featured as part of Monday Mural. For more Weekend Reflections, please visit James' meme.

Theme Day: action shot

2011-12-01T00:01:00.001-08:00

They feel like they're flying. Seen at The Temescal Street Fair this past summer. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants in this month's CDP Theme Day.

ABC Wednesday: T is for tiles

2011-11-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

Many Oakland buildings are trimmed or decorated with hand made tiles. Most are from the 20s and 30s. Here's a sample. For more takes on "T", visit ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: Aung San Suu Kyi

2011-11-28T00:01:00.000-08:00

Students at Oakland High School created a series of murals of winners of the Nobel Peace Prize. Now that Aung San Suu Kyi has been released from house arrest and has decided to participate in the coming elections in Burma, I thought about her place in this mural. Hard to believe it's been 10 years since she won the Nobel Prize, most of which she has spent in confinement.

Weekend Reflection: on autumn pond

2011-11-25T19:59:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe this rural looking pond is a half block from a busily traveled street. It is one of three ponds at the back of Mt. View Cemetery. Now that some of the brush has started its winter die back, you can see the pond's edges. The rain has raised the water level some and the ducks are having a grand ol' time. For more reflections, visit James's meme Weekend Reflections. You'll be glad you did.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T00:01:00.000-08:00

Although the Thanksgiving holiday is not celebrated everywhere, I'm sure the practice of counting your blessings is pretty universal. The pilgrims celebrated their survival. I try to practice gratitude for the primary things in life. Like a snug home, good health, companionship, food enough, and an occasional pretty thing to put on the table. What are you thankful for?

ABC Wednesday: S is for sphinx

2011-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

More than one tomb in Mt. View cemetery has sphinxes guarding it. Much to my surprise, Wikipedia tells me the sphinx is a symbol for Christ and the divine light. Didn't know that; did you? The sculpture in the cemetery is always a delight to see. For more takes on "S", please visit ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: The Carpenter

2011-11-21T07:40:00.000-08:00

This new mural is located downtown at San Pablo and about 16th Street. It is done by John and Michael Manente. The mural is situated on the back of an odd shaped building and as you can see is two stories high. It's quite striking in its painterly quality and verisimilitude. I'd swear it wasn't there a month ago. I like that it is talking directly to us. What do you think the message is?

Skywatch Friday: before the rain

2011-11-18T18:05:00.000-08:00

The last light a couple of days ago. Last night and this evening it was too foggy or rainy to get much. Taken from Mt. View Cemetery. For skies from around the world, visit Skywatch Friday.

ABC Wednesday: R is for red roadster

2011-11-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

Auto Row used to be packed with car dealerships. Most have now moved closer to the freeway or to towns east of here. This Corvette has pride of place in one of the few showrooms left on Broadway. Even through the plate glass window I could hear it go rrroom, rrroom. Note the red trim on the white walls. So cool. For more takes on "R", visit ABC Wednesday.

Halloween survivors

2011-11-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

Spotted on Ivy Hill just off Park Blvd. A bright spot on a gray day.

Monday Mural: completed project

2011-11-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

This mural by Thomas Christopher Haag is on the side of Rare Bird on Piedmont Avenue. His work in progress, also on the Avenue, was featured last Monday. Rare Bird sells clothing, home decor, and art from local artists.

Weekend Reflection: trees inside and out

2011-11-12T01:39:00.000-08:00

This flower shop's window display is unique and eye catching. For more reflections, visit James' meme.

ABC Wednesday: Q is for quiet

2011-11-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

This sign is back stage at the renovated Paramount Theater. The Paramount is the most deco-y building you'll find in California. It has previously been featured many times including here, here, and here. It remains a performance venue for monthly movies and concerts. For more takes on Q, visit ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: mural in progress

2011-11-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

Thomas Haag is creating a mural for the new holistic veterinary clinic on Piedmont Avenue. He expects the project to last another four weeks. Thomas has created murals in many locales around the world including Albuquerque, Barcelona, Venice and Varanasi. His work is done with reclaimed latex paint and his distinct mural style reflects his exposure to many cultures. He's already completed another mural on the Avenue, which will be shared next week.

Skywatch Friday: rain

2011-11-04T00:34:00.000-07:00

We've gone from balmy to rainy with big winds that got a little scary. If we get a few more days of mild weather, my last round of roses should bloom. Always a welcome sight in any weather. As is this vista of the bay. For more sky views, or to post your own, visit Skywatch Friday.

ABC Wednesday: P is for paste-up

2011-11-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Paste-ups are ephemeral art on paper mounted with wheat paste. They are intended to be impermanent, with weather taking its toll over time. One of the favorite places to hang these pieces is the BART support pillars in North Oakland. All the paste-ups I photographed in February are now gone. That includes this piece by Get Up. For more takes on the letter "P" visit ABC Wednesday.

Theme Day: fences

2011-11-01T00:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a literal interpretation of this month's theme. Driving down Lincoln Avenue you can't help but notice this fence. Massive, marble dragons sit at the front and side of the house entrance. Each dragon is at least 10 feet long and stands over 5 feet high at the head. That's a whole lot of power, strength, and good luck for the home owners. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants in this month's City Daily Photo theme day.

Monday Mural: mural on stage

2011-10-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend was the annual Piedmont Avenue Halloween parade. Besides the parade with trick o' treating and a pumpkin patch at the cemetery, there's always music and other entertainment. This group performed at the Rocky Baird mural at Key Route Plaza. The Key Route street car system ran in Oakland and Berkeley until 1958.

As always, everyone had a good time. A beekeeper and her favorite bee.

Dog Marley

Capoeira exhibition in the street.

Everyone knows that moms are super heroes.

shadow on stairs

2011-10-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Late afternoon shadows in the cemetery. For other photos featuring shadows, visit Shadow Shot Sunday.

the space between

2011-10-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

This sweet building is only a few blocks from City Hall. It does its best to stand tall between its towering neighbors. The weather continues to be fair but the temperatures are dropping significantly at night. For more sky shots, visit Skywatch Friday.

bay trail

2011-10-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

This is part of the Bay Trail near Jack London Square.

ABC Wednesday: O is for Occupy Oakland

2011-10-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

This photo of Oakland's version of the Occupy Wall Street action was taken 10 days ago. Occupiers camped in the public space in front of city hall and attracted a diverse group of participants. Over time the mood shifted from ebullient to edgy. Before dawn today the police moved in to remove the protesters and their tent city; tonight the confrontation has turned ugly. Regardless of where you stand on the 99% Movement, this local story arc was entirely predictable. Sigh. For more representations of "O", visit ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: bomb squad kingz

2011-10-24T00:01:00.000-07:00

One more from the Oakland Wall of Fame. Shows a sense of humor and self-deprecation. And, it was done by girls. Girl Power!

last bite of the season

2011-10-22T21:31:00.000-07:00

Friday was the last Bites off Broadway event for the season. Seven food trucks were there, along with musicians, hula hoops, and an after-dark performance of the "Thriller" dance. The weather was quite mild and the crowd was large. Linking to SOOC Sunday.

Oakland Firestorm anniversary

2011-10-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

Today is the 20th anniversary of the Oakland Firestorm that destroyed more than 3000 houses and took 25 lives. This memorial stands near the Caldecott Tunnel where the fire jumped 8 lanes of highway to continue on its devastating path. As the fire burned down the hill our neighborhood had to evacuate. My strongest memory is standing at the bottom of our street watching eucalyptus trees at the top of the cemetery canyon explode from the intense heat. Ash rained down all around us. It wasn't until the next day we learned that our homes were still standing thanks to a shift in the direction of the winds and the grueling work of fire fighters. I know many people who were not as lucky. The local paper reports that those who have moved into the fire zone since the fire have a hard time understanding why they have to engage in such pesky practices like clearing brush from around their house. They truly do not understand the sense of urgency for preparedness that those who went through the fire have.

Among many commemorative activities, the Oakland Museum has mounted an exhibit by photographer Richard Misrach who documented the fire's aftermath. He has not published these large format photos until now. They are a vivid reminder and an education for us all.

ABC Wednesday: N is for namaste

2011-10-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Namaste from Oakland. Seen at a local street fair. Visit Mrs. Nesbitt's meme to find other takes on "N".

Monday Mural: at the clinica

2011-10-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Usually a car parks along side this mural. Recently, while driving down Fruitvale Avenue, the car was gone and I jumped out to take this picture. The mural was done by Ernesto Olmos in 2005 with help from neighborhood youth. It adorns a building used by the Clinica de la Raza and remains as bright as if it were done yesterday.

hood ornament

2011-10-15T19:22:00.000-07:00

The hood ornament of a fully restored 1933 Pierce Arrow. Spotted at a local auction. Submitted to both Weekend Reflections and SOOC Sunday.

ABC Wednesday: M is for mosaic

2011-10-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

Located in Jingletown, the Institute of Mosaic Art teaches mosaic design and offers mosaic services. Several businesses in Jingletown have capitalized on the Institute's presence to use mosaics for their business signs. For other takes on "M" visit Mrs. Nesbitt's meme ABC Wednesday.

Monday Mural: Gertrude and Alice

2011-10-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

This is a detail from a huge mural downtown on Franklin Street. Gertrude Stein has famously been quoted as saying about Oakland that "There is no there there." The quote actually pertains to a visit to her childhood home, which had been torn down. Still feeling the sting of this presumed put down, the city sometimes flies a flag at the top of the Tribune Building that says "There."

Still out of town and using autopost.

decorative tiles

2011-10-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

This tiled "fountain" is in the entryway of a Spanish style building near Lake Merritt. The building was closed when I walked by and I had to stick my camera through the wrought iron gate to get this shot. I love the old tiles that decorate so many of our buildings.

Skywatch Friday: market garland

2011-10-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Swan's was built in 1917 in the historic business area now called Old Oakland. It is covered in white tile and has these wonderful garlands and majolica style plaques. It contains Housewives Market which is composed of multiple food shops. Old Oakland has beautiful Victorian building blocks and a number of popular restaurants, yet often feels empty. For some reason it lacks the pedestrian traffic that gives a neighborhood its lively quality. The sliver of sky shows that after recent rain we are again enjoying fair weather. For more sky shots, visit Skywatch Friday.

Still autoposting.

ABC Wednesday: L is for Luka's

2011-10-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Luka's Taproom and Lounge, a popular restaurant in the Uptown area, was instrumental in the growth of this area. Their parking lot is at the base of the Great Wall featured a week ago. If suds are your preferred libation, this is your place. They serve over 30 different beers, including local and imported brews. While you're contemplating your choices, visit ABC Wednesday for more takes on "L".

I'll be out of town for a week so have turned to autoposting.

a shark out of water

2011-10-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Spotted at the Project Bandaloop performance a couple of weeks ago. They looked like they're having fun. Linked to Photo Roma's Night Shot Monday.

I'll be out of town for a week so autoposting ensues.

Monday Mural: Mike Dream

2011-10-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Here is another panel from Oakland's Wall of Fame. It references Mike "Dream" Francisco, a seminal figure in graffiti art who died in 2000. He is famous in the hip hop community and even has a dedicated page on a website in Djibouti.

I'll be out of town for a week. Onward with autoposting.

SOOC: parklet on Piedmont Avenue

2011-10-02T00:01:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Oakland participated in International Park(ing) Day. The movement aims to make cities more liveable by adding more outdoor seating on streets. Several businesses set up "parklets" in parking spaces in front of their stores. This spot was in front of Shimizu, a Japanese restaurant on Piedmont Avenue. The latest news is that the city has decided to permit 8(!!) longer term parklets around town as an experiment. This shot is unedited and submitted to SOOC Sunday.

Theme Day: mystery object

2011-10-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Here's my theme day entry. Can you guess what it is? Unfortunately, I don't have a long distance shot to show you. It is a large piece of public sculpture on the Mills College Campus. Spiders have added an extra layer of weirdness to this piece. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants in this month's City Daily Photo Theme Day.

Skywatch Friday: style layers

2011-09-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Downtown Oakland has a wonderful melange of old buildings, and some not so great new ones. See what I mean? The clouds indicate that into each of our lives some rain must fall, maybe over the weekend. For more sky clues, check Skywatch Friday.

ABC Wednesday: K is for kayak

2011-09-28T00:01:00.000-07:00

One of the cool things you can do at Jack London Square is rent a kayak for paddling the estuary. Unless that's too slow for you. In which case there's always jet skis. For more "K" photos visit the ever entertaining ABC Wednesday.

out for a walk

2011-09-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

The weekend was cold and dreary and it even rained. Today started clear and turned quite warm. Everyone was out for a walk. Spotted at Jack London Square.

Monday Mural: Oakland Riviera

2011-09-26T00:01:00.000-07:00

The artists in Jingletown have designed a wall of murals in an area they've dubbed the Oakland Riviera. Tongue in cheek of course. One of the murals contains portraits of their beloved critters who are walked on what has been renamed the "rue de merde." Looks like they clean up after their dogs too. This is around the corner from the lizard/iguana posted earlier.

SOOC: Colton family tomb

2011-09-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

This is the Colton family tomb in Mt. View Cemetery. David Colton died in 1878 and was known in his time as a railroad magnate and land owner. His wife may also be buried here but there is no information on her dates on this planet. Just like Nellie, her history was given short shrift. The cemetery is full of large tombs like these, many of which seem no longer to be connected to succeeding generations. Kind of sad. This photo was taken late one afternoon and is straight out of the camera. For more SOOC photos, visit SOOC Sunday.

Skywatch Friday: new condos downtown

2011-09-23T00:01:00.000-07:00

Our former mayor and now governor promoted the building of new residential housing downtown. Here's an example. Warm days and clear skies have been here for about two weeks. September typically has our warmest weather and we're glad it's here. For additional sky views, visit Skywatch Friday.

ABC Wednesday: J is for jeté

2011-09-21T00:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend the dance company Project Bandaloop performed on the Great Wall of Oakland (previously featured here). Twenty years ago the troupe's director was inspired by her rock climbing experiences to combine the rigging technology with dance to defy gravity while making art. The performance premiered a new piece, Bound(less), with original music by trombonist Dana Leong. The entire experience was exciting, moving, and completely unique. It was thrilling to watch the dancers, especially when they leapt away from the wall with grace and precision. Grand jetés are hard enough to do on a horizontal surface, let alone on a 10-story wall. I'm guessing at least a 1000 people were at Saturday's performance, bringing their own chairs, blankets, and food as they waited for the performance. Checkout the Bandaloop website video to get a taste of their performance style. And check out ABC Wednesday for more takes on "J".

Monday Mural: people forest

2011-09-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Spotted awhile ago in West Oakland. The other side of the warehouse was shown previously.

SOOC: Nellie

2011-09-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

I frequently walk in Mt. View Cemetery. For some reason this grave stone impressed me. Mr. May is buried here but the headstone says Nellie at the top. Why? Why the bird's nest and baby chicks? What does the crescent moon and star represent? I understand little of this iconography. Can someone enlighten me? Taken one warm afternoon in the fading light. This is straight out of the camera. For more SOOC shots, visit SOOC Sunday.

Skywatch Friday: slivers of glass and sky

2011-09-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Downtown near City Center. Visit Skywatch Friday for more sky shot entries.

garden gate

2011-09-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

A lovely garden gate off Broadway Terrace. Love the Mediterranean blue color.

ABC Wednesday: I is for Idora Park

2011-09-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Once thought to have been part of Idora Park, this windmill was a lemonade stand that stood outside of the park. It is now the last remnant of what had been a 17 acre amusement park that bordered Telegraph Avenue. Way back in the day, Idora Park was a destination visited by such luminaries as Jack London, Charlie Chaplin, and Buster Keaton.

According to Wikipedia it was especially known for its Opera House, scenic railway, rollercoasters, and vaudeville shows. Built in 1904, it closed in 1929. Click here for more old photos of Idora. Visit ABC Wednesday for more takes on the letter I.

night scene in Jack London Square

2011-09-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

On a recent warm evening, I took this shot after visiting Dancing Under the Stars in Jack London Square. Linking to Night Shot Monday.

Monday Mural: clinica de la raza

2011-09-12T00:01:00.000-07:00

This mural decorates the Clinica de la Raza medical clinic in the Fruitvale. It was the first clinic in Oakland designed to serve Spanish-speaking clients. Its many services have grown over the years and it now serves much of East Oakland.

in rememberance

2011-09-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

Linked to SOOC Sunday.

ABC Wednesday: H is for Hi Hat Cleaners

2011-09-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

This vintage neon sign advertises a business that has continued in the same spot for decades. Surprisingly, despite its worn appearance, the sign continues to work too. The owner says they turn it on winter evenings during operating hours. During short winter days, it probably serves as a beacon to front door. He also hopes to get it restored, although I imagine that is a costly process. The sign and business anchor the corner of MacArthur and Maple St. in the Laurel District. Visit ABC Wednesday for other takes on this week's letter.

Monday Mural: new mural

2011-09-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

This mural was done this year by Chase and Bui. It's near Jack London Square at 3rd and Broadway on the side of a vegan restaurant. It's vibrant colors and cartoon design really catch your eye. Don't know if the speech balloons are supposed to be sincere or ironic. Maybe the cartoon characters have a specific reference. It's hard keeping up with pop culture to know for sure.

parking shadows

2011-09-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Spotted downtown late one afternoon. Submitted to Shadow Shot Sunday.

Skywatch Friday: Tuiaki he Lotu

2011-09-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Free Church of Tonga is located on Fruitvale Avenue. Most of the Tongans I know are Mormons. This free church is an off-shoot from the Methodist church. This church looks like a quiet oasis on a busy street. This shot shows you more blue skies after the fog burns off. The weatherman says we're in for a warming trend and no fog at night. Yippee. For more of today's sky views, visit Skywatch Friday.

Theme Day: Perspective

2011-09-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

Sometimes heights are scary, sometimes fun. It's all a matter of perspective. Spotted at the recent Temescal Street Fair. Submitted to CDP's monthly theme day. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants.

ABC Wednesday: G is for Greyhound

2011-08-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Greyhound bus service was founded in 1914 and appears to be going strong with 25 million passengers a year. The Oakland terminal was built in the 30s but doesn't have many deco features except maybe the sign. This is an iconic image that has survived the decades. For other "G" images, visit ABC Wednesday for visual treats from around the world. Also linked to Leslie's Signs Signs.

Monday Mural: Cakeland

2011-08-29T00:26:00.000-07:00

This mural is painted by Scott Hove on the side of his business called Cakeland at Shattuck Avenue and 56th St. Silly me, I thought it was a bakery. So wrong. It's a gallery and workshop for art installations using fantasy cakes that cannot be eaten but you can "have" for as long as you desire. The mural hints at the themes within. At first glance it looks whimsical and cheerful. If you look longer you'll start to see troubling or incongruent images and components that seem a little menacing. That's what you get with the cake installations, and then some. Peruse the link and you'll see what I mean.