Jingletown Birds

Jill McLennan watches Jingletown, her neighborhood of 15+ years, transform into a community of development.  McLennan is both an observers and a participant in this urban renewal.  In 2017, she completed her first public art project with Madison Park Development Corp. in Jingletown at 401 Derby Ave.  She designed 12 panels depicting birds flying over the Oakland and Jingletown skyline, framing the entryway with a 40’ visual screening above and the main doors, reviving the wetlands, below.  Working directly with Madison Park, and their architect, she partnered with DEKA Fabrications in Jingletown.  

Jingletown Birds, 401 Derby Ave, Oakland

McLennan emphasizes the mixed use that this neighborhood is known for and celebrates the balance that exists between residents, businesses and nature.  The industrial nature of the material, steel, reflects the steel industry that once dominated Jingletown.  The imagery is based on a combination of vantage points throughout the neighborhood, depicting both local details and familiar views of the city and beyond.  The idea of the birds is based on direct observation of the activities of birds living here, migrating through and filling our neighborhood with activity and song.  The birds may also be a metaphor for the people, coming and going, roosting and nesting, working independently and as a community to create a place to call home.