SPACES Oakland: A Place for Art, a Space for Story

The event prompted a series of performances and talks that translated some of the most authentic experiences from locals of diverse backgrounds. Shared stories opened lenses of perspective on true tales of laughter, love, and sometimes pain. This collage of performances relayed the lives and identities of Oaklanders through authenticity and the art of expression through storytelling. This unique occasion was designed for both audience enjoyment and interaction. Guests walked, sat, stood, and moved alongside performers through the heart of Oakland as they listened to the intimate stories of residents who had previously participated in guided workshops hosted by local organizations and the SPACES art team in preparation for their story sharing.  

SPACES: Oakland highlighted the works of local artists and residents including Villa San Francisco’s opening artist in residence for the 2021-2022 season, Sarah Crowell. Crowell is the lead and associate artist at the performing dance company, Kaimera Productions, who produced SPACES: Oakland in partnership with the Oakland/Saint-Denis cooperation project of Villa San Francisco and the City of Oakland Cultural Affairs, Destiny Arts Center, BANDALOOP, Downtown Oakland Association, The Townfolk Project, and YR Media. Coproducers also included the French American Cultural Society, the Institut Français, California Humanities, and Légendes Urbaines.