Not everyone knows West Oakland to be an artists’ community, but this Spark episode tells the stories of artists who call this area of the East Bay their home.

Critically acclaimed modernist sculptor Bruce Beasley not only shows us the creation process behind his awe-inspiring sculptures but also discusses the area’s development.

Despite a lack of funding for school arts programs, high school students who take part in BUMP, the Bay Unity Music Project, are learning about music production from hip-hop professionals.

John Abduljaami introduces us to his work and regales us with stories about his woodcarvings.

Finally, tag artist ©rude leaves political, African-inspired artwork around West Oakland public spaces.

In this Episode

Bay Unity Music Project (BUMP)

Get down with BUMP, where high school students are learning about music production from hip hop professionals.

Bruce Beasley

See the creative process behind Bruce Beasley's modernist sculptures at his West Oakland complex.

Crude

Go undercover with tag artist Crude, who leaves political, African-inspired artwork around West Oakland public spaces.

John Abduljaami

Watch as woodcarver John Abduljaami creates a figure from start to finish at his West Oakland lot.