~Blossoms~ International Friendship

21’-25’ x 65’ - June 2024
Sister City Lane | 1225 San Carlos Avenue, San Carlos 94070

This vibrant mural is a collaboration between Bay Area-based artist, Yucali Seki who has her studio at ArtBias in San Carlos and Omura-based calligraphist, Mr. Housui Sato.

It celebrates the sister cities relationship of San Carlos, CA and Omura in Nagasaki, Japan. Over the years, peaceful friendships have blossomed, transcending borders and cultures. The mural radiates hope, unity, blossoming global friendship and growth. 

Calligraphy Bridging Cultures

Mr. Sato’s exquisite calligraphy, featured in the mural, echoes the theme of international friendship. From left-to-right on the wall, the calligraphy gracefully spells out しまいとし “sister city” (woven into the far left blossoms),  空のみなと街 “sky’s port town” (a nickname used and loved by Omura people), おおむら桜 “Omura cherry blossom”, 玖島城 “Kushima castle,” 大村 “Omura” (center top), 大村市 “Omura City”, サンカルロス市 “City of San Carlos”, 歴史と技術の街 “Cities of History and Technology”, continued in English to right is “SAN CARLOS,” “City of Good Living”, “OMURA Japan” and “Sister City Lane.”     

This mural invites viewers to pause, experience and re-see the beauty of both cities and highlights the human relationships that transcend borders.

Artistic elements of the native flora of the sister cities converge harmoniously within the mural, mirroring the peaceful friendship.

  • Cherry Blossoms and Iris Flowers (Omura): Omura and other cherry blossoms symbolize Omura’s grace and resilience.  Omura Park boasts an impressive collection of about 2000 cherry trees and approximately 300,000 Japanese Iris flowers, creating a serene and enchanting landscape.  Omura Cherry blossom is famous for having large numbers of petals, ranging from 60-200 per blossom.

  • Coast Live Oaks, Poppies, and Golden Hills (San Carlos): The majestic Coast live oaks, some standing tall for over 250 years, represent San Carlos’s strength and endurance. The cheerful California Poppies add vibrant splashes of color, inviting all to explore the trails and immerse in the natural beauty.

 A growing tree intertwines with blossoming flowers and calligraphy. These distinct elements represent the unique qualities of each city, yet the heart lies in its theme “grow harmoniously together”--embodying the importance of nurturing international exchange and friendships.

The mural also weaves in historical landmarks from both cities.

  • Kushima Castle (Omura): A nod to Omura’s rich past, the castle stands as a testament to resilience and heritage.

  • The Drake Building (San Carlos): This iconic structure represents San Carlos’ modernity and progress.

 

Planning In Progress:

Community Paint Day & Longest Table Celebration - Saturday, 6/8/2024

Wheeler plaza - parking lot between Paris Baguette and Blue Line Pizza buildings.

Please let us know you are coming and how many you are bringing so we can set up the tables and chairs.

Activities

  • 9am - 1pm: Community Mural Painting (shifts and volunteer scheduling to be announced)

  • 10:30am: Food Trucks Arrive

    • Saigon Street Food | The Chairman | Mister Softee

  • 11:00am - 2:00pm: Longest Table Event