This summer, the Bay Area Mural Program revitalized the ceiling at Bay Tech High School on 23rd Avenue in Oakland. Through teamwork, artistry, and community spirit, the project transformed the school’s space while highlighting the power of public art to inspire and uplift. Stay tuned for more community mural projects coming this summer!

Oakland celebrates a historic first with Barbara Lee as its new—and first Black woman—mayor. Her visit to the Black Cultural Zone, where she joined in painting a community mural, shows her leadership in action: rooted in connection, culture, and care. The city’s next chapter begins with unity and bold, people-powered vision.

Winton Middle School students ended the year with more than just finals—they left their mark with a powerful mural reflecting their voices, dreams, and pride. In partnership with @horizonprojecteden, students brought creativity into the classroom and onto the school walls, proving that art is a tool for empowerment, storytelling, and community connection.

In this episode of Urban Artist Talk, we sit down with visionary muralist Joshua Mays to explore how imagination, consistency, and inner reflection shape his creative journey. Known for transforming public spaces into storytelling portals, Mays shares how reconnecting with his inner child and embracing emerging tools like AI allows him to build immersive, world-based narratives rooted in purpose and identity. Whether you're an artist, creative entrepreneur, or simply curious about the process behind powerful public art, this conversation is packed with insights that will challenge and inspire.

“I have blues songs that have never been released. And no, you’ll never find them.” — Empress Desiree

In this raw and powerful sit-down with Urban Artist Talk, reggae icon Empress Desiree opens up about her journey through roots reggae, her revolutionary connection to St. Croix, and the healing power of music. From navigating the industry as a woman to helping a fan in Brazil stand again through the strength of her songs, Desiree reminds us that true artistry is about purpose, not popularity.

Rooted in truth and driven by spirit, Empress Desiree isn't just making music—she’s starting movements.

In the heart of the Bay Area’s creative pulse stands AO—also known as Love More—an artist, community-builder, and cultural force redefining what it means to lead with love. From his viral music to his powerful "Love More Show" interviews and community-driven initiatives like the Black Men’s Unity Hikes, AO's journey is rooted in fearless authenticity and connection. Through fashion, conversation, and action, he reminds us that true influence isn't about clout—it's about courage, purpose, and showing up for your people every single day.

In this heartfelt episode of Urban Artist Talk, muralist David Burke shares how art transformed his life and the Oakland community. From honoring the late Antonio Ramos to building a creative family through public murals, David’s journey reminds us of the power of showing up, even in difficult seasons.

Late-night murals, stolen generators, and Steph Curry’s lucky backpack—Bay Area muralist Matley Hurd shares the chaos, creativity, and grind behind his iconic public art. From goddess figures to graffiti-styled grit, this is how he turns the streets into stories.

From Street Art to Wine Bottles: Shogun Shido’s Creative Evolution

Oakland-based artist and DJ Shogun Shido has turned life’s challenges into a multidimensional art practice—painting on everything from city walls to wine labels. In this Urban Artist Talk feature, he shares how art saved him during homelessness, the meaning behind his name, and why creativity isn’t just a skill—it’s a lifestyle. Whether spinning tracks as DJ Jambalaya or designing labels for natural wine, Shido proves that true artists don’t stay in one lane—they build their own roads.

Behind the Walls: The Illuminaries on Humility, Hustle, and Holding It Down in Oakland

From late-night tags in Fruitvale to towering murals downtown, The Illuminaries have shaped Oakland’s visual identity—without ever chasing the spotlight. Rooted in graffiti but refined by years of experience, their work blends street grit with artistic precision, honoring both culture and commission.

On Urban Artist Talk, the elusive crew shares their journey: from dodging cops to painting for citywide landmarks, balancing artistic integrity with the realities of public art. Whether it’s battling fear on a swing stage or debating self-doubt, their mantra remains the same—keep pushing, keep learning, and always respect the wall.

🔎 Want more? Grab their book Spray and Paint Where It Ain’t for an inside look at their creative process. And if you’re in Oakland, look up—you’ll probably see one of their murals watching back.

Street art isn’t just about what ends up on the wall—it’s about the journey, the risks, and the fight to create. In Chasing the Paint: A Tale of Art, Identity, and Hustle, we dive into the raw reality of muralists, from reclaiming stolen supplies to redefining cultural narratives. Follow the story of Sorrel Tsui, an artist who turned struggle into success, blending heritage with modern expression. This is the art world as you’ve never seen it—unfiltered, relentless, and alive.

From tattooing at Target to creating iconic murals across Oakland, Timothy B's artistic journey is a testament to resilience and creative evolution. His story highlights the power of betting on oneself, embracing community, and transforming passion into a thriving career.

Anita's story is one of ambition, resilience, and adaptability. From her early days as a TV host to becoming one of Kenya's top digital influencers, she has navigated industry challenges, embraced new opportunities, and thrived through change. Discover how she turned obstacles into stepping stones and continues to inspire through her advocacy for sustainability and African empowerment.

Discover Taylor Smalls' inspiring journey from architecture to full-time art. Learn how she empowers creative entrepreneurs with financial literacy, celebrates women through her art, and shares lessons on resilience and community. Be inspired to thrive creatively and sustainably!

Discover how solar energy is transforming education in rural Kenya, empowering students, teachers, and the community with access to technology and new opportunities for a brighter future.

Explore how the Bay Area Mural Program and GivePower are transforming Kenyan communities through art and solar energy, fostering cultural exchange and sustainable development.

Explore Rachel Wolf’s inspiring journey as a muralist and activist on Urban Artist Talk. From life-changing challenges to impactful art collaborations, discover how creativity builds connections and empowers communities.

Explore Rachel Wolf’s inspiring journey as a muralist and activist on Urban Artist Talk. From life-changing challenges to impactful art collaborations, discover how creativity builds connections and empowers communities.

Explore Rachel Wolf’s inspiring journey as a muralist and activist on Urban Artist Talk. From life-changing challenges to impactful art collaborations, discover how creativity builds connections and empowers communities.

Explore Rachel Wolf’s inspiring journey as a muralist and activist on Urban Artist Talk. From life-changing challenges to impactful art collaborations, discover how creativity builds connections and empowers communities.