Community mural with 200 student handprints planned; sign-ups and test dates set

A presenter told the Benicia Arts & Culture Commission that a 100-foot-by-10-foot mural is underway that centers on a tree-of-life image with children's handprints and waterfront motifs. The project seeks school participation and plans to display about 200 student handprints as part of the finished work.

The presenter described a schedule: a sign-up cutoff on Sept. 8, a run test on Sept. 11, and a public opening on Sept. 14 with multiple sessions running from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. across that day; completion was estimated within roughly 45 days after the event. Organizers will give each participating child a certificate and a small take-home memento showing their print.

Commissioners asked how the community could support the project; the presenter noted signup sheets left at the meeting and asked volunteers to register. The commission expressed support and staff offered to help circulate notices.

This was an informational presentation; no city funding or permit decisions were recorded at the meeting.