About Us: Mission/History

The City’s Mural Art Program was established in 2009 to address the issue of escalating graffiti and vandalism and in support of the City Council’s Safe, Clean and Green community priorities. The idea behind the program was to deter graffiti by installing beautiful mural artwork throughout the city on commercial buildings, schools, utility boxes, and overpasses. So far, more than 1,200 volunteers (including public schools, senior citizens, community organizations) have participated in selecting and installing over 200 art installations throughout the City, including murals and tile mosaics.

Since program inception, Hayward has seen a decrease in graffiti on property that used to be habitually tagged, and spectacular beautification of our neighborhoods. Murals help build relationships, empower communities, and spark economic revitalization. They help increase foot traffic while adding color, vibrancy, and character to the City environment. They also promote a sense of identity, belonging, openness, and welcoming.

Hayward’s murals celebrate the diversity of our community, stimulate conversation about history and events, build bridges of connection and understanding, and inspire reflection.

As a result of the Mural Art Program, Hayward has received national recognition as a vibrant center for the arts. The Mural Art Program also promotes job creation by commissioning local muralists and helps to revitalize corridors, increase the marketability of property, and promote tourism.