African American Museum and Library in Oakland (AAMLO)

Exactly 20 years ago on October 12, 2004, Granny Midwife Margaret Charles Smith was in Oakland for the West Coast premier of the documentary MISS MARGARET:  The story of life in the Deep South from the perspective of a deeply spiritual and wise midwife.  Fortunately,...
Documenting Soul

Documenting Soul

Eighteen years ago I sat next to a young mother on a plane with her newborn.  Naturally we talked about her beautiful baby – especially when I discovered that she gave birth to him at home.  Naeem’s in college now but here he is as a toddler looking...
Not The End

Not The End

The LOVE MURALISTS planned to paint just two murals in Japan and ended up painting FIVE.  Enthusiasm and receptivity permeated everything. They worked hard, had fun and created community while producing lasting memories and worthy art.  Similarly, Oakland, CA and its...
Love Mural Gang

Love Mural Gang

This is the Japanese LOVE MURAL GANG.  They are Elders.  They are Chaplains.  They are Children.                                                                  Photos are still rolling in.  They’re “working fast and furious,” according to Alex. ...
About Muralist Alex Cook

About Muralist Alex Cook

Alex and Marcy leave tomorrow for Ginowan, Okinawa to help kids in an orphanage paint a Love Mural.  We don’t know what the exact wording will be. Will they use Japanese characters or calligraphy?  Stay tuned.  We do know that Alex has extensive experience...