Juana Alicia with her sketchbook in front of Para Las Rosas in July 5, 2021 (David Allen)
Since 1985, the westward facing exterior wall of 855 Treat Avenue, home of the San Francisco Mime Troupe, has been adorned with Para las Rosas / For the Roses, a vibrant work by gifted artist Juana Alicia.
Sadly, the mural is now showing its age after 35 years. Heritage is working with the Mime Troupe to support Juana Alicia in a major restoration of Para Las Rosas, which is aiming to kick-off in the summer of 2021.
Para Las Rosas in 1985. Photo by Miguel Bry.
The mural on July 5, 2021. Photo by David Allen.
This month, Juana Alicia is giving us all a glimpse of the future mural by restoring the section depicting comedian Lenny Bruce as a clown character. This comedian and social critic was only one of the many great artists who recorded at 855 when it was the original location of the Fantasy Records studio from 1959 to 1964.
Section of Para Las Rosas depicting Lenny Bruce in 1985. Photo by Miguel Bry.
But we need YOUR HELP to maintain the mural as a cornerstone of the Mission’s cultural legacy. On Sunday, September 19 from 1:00-2:00 PM, Juana Alicia will host a free community Zoom meeting to share the history behind the mural and her plans for the restoration project. We will share our fundraising campaign and establish a dialogue with community members to hear thoughts and ideas. Everyone is welcome!
Find the Zoom info to add to your calendar below (flyer in English and Spanish).
