First I researched the history of the surrounding neighborhood, finding archival documents and maps at the Oakland Library History Room.
I wanted to create a book that represented the history behind the neighborhood without losing my own voice. So I use this to come up with my concept.
I gathered my own data and qualitative observations and chose a direction based on this. I put together these thoughts, illustrations, and research into a book.
This book is about the block and surrounding neighborhood where I live, Montell Street and Piedmont Ave neighborhood, Oakland. The neighborhood is a unique place full of a rich history and strong community. I originally wanted to make the book objective, but it felt false because I didn't actually feel a part of the community myself. At the same time, I also didn't want to portray it in a bad light because that wasn't the way I saw it either. I decided to be honest with my book by showing the richness and beauty of the area while also injecting my voice and feelings into it. By the end of the project, I actually felt more connected to the place because of the book.
One of my favorite moments from this project was when I had made the watercolor section dividers. I left the papers out next to the nearby creek to get affected by the rain. Since it was windy, I decided to wedge it in between the fences before leaving. When I came back to it the next day, someone had taped it up on the fence.
When I was still in the process of figuring out the tone of my book, I was confused and stressed out. I learned that the best way to remedy that was to stop fixating on the book, and to really immerse myself in the actual place. I fell in love with the creek and animals around the area. I learned during this project how valuable it is to immerse yourself in the project's subject.
