SAN FRANCISCO, October 14, 2025 – The San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) and San Francisco Public Library (SFPL) are pleased to announce the completed installation of a new temporary mural by artist Belen Islas, created in partnership with Dr. Jonathan Cordero, Executive Director of the Association of the Ramaytush Ohlone, at the San Francisco Main Library.  

The 500-square-foot mural, titled atemtuhe meaning “to listen,” will be on view at the Main Library for up to two years, through Fall 2027. Fabricated on PVC-free vinyl with a UV protective coating, the mural is installed in the Library’s atrium along the stairwell leading to the Fisher Children’s Center on the second floor.  

The mural honors the Ramaytush people’s enduring presence on the San Francisco Peninsula and reflects Indigenous traditions of storytelling, ceremony, and the sharing of intergenerational knowledge. Set within a California landscape alive with native flora and fauna, the composition—hand-painted by Islas—illustrates how wisdom and understanding are passed across generations from a primarily Indigenous perspective. At its base, an Elder shares stories with attentive children, their gestures of listening, movement, and discovery embodying the continual exchange of knowledge across generations. 

Rooted in circularity rather than linear time, atemtuhe evokes the cycles of learning, renewal, and connection that define Indigenous ways of knowing. Flowing imagery throughout the mural underscores the interdependence of all beings, both human and non-human, and the enduring resonance of first teachings. The work invites all who pass by to reflect on where knowledge comes from, and how it continues through each of us. 

“San Francisco’s public art, including temporary installations such as atemtuhe by artist Belen Islas and Dr. Jonathan Cordero, should reflect the voices, stories, and traditions of the many communities that make San Francisco so special,” said Ralph Remington, Director of Cultural Affairs. “We are honored to once again partner with the San Francisco Public Library on this public art opportunity, in partnership with Dr. Jonathan Cordero and the Association of the Ramaytush Ohlone, to help illustrate how the Main Library is an open and welcoming place of learning and connection for all with a vibrant and striking mural that showcases Indigenous art and knowledge.” 

The project is a partnership between the San Francisco Arts Commission, the San Francisco Public Library, and the Association of the Ramaytush Ohlone. It is funded through SFPL and managed by the Arts Commission. 

“This mural transforms the very heart of our Main Library into a site of storytelling and shared knowledge,” said Michael Lambert, City Librarian. “Families visiting the Fisher Children’s Center will encounter a work of art that not only reflects the beauty of California’s landscapes but also carries forward the wisdom of Ramaytush Ohlone traditions. We are proud to host this important project.” 

The project continues SFAC’s and SFPL’s long standing partnership and commitment to expanding access to art and culture in civic spaces, while uplifting the histories and voices of Indigenous communities whose lands we inhabit. 

“For me, the library has always been a magic place, where discovery begins, imagination is free to roam, and dreams find their wings. It is an honor to work on a project that celebrates the ways the Ramaytush Ohlone people have shared knowledge across generations, through stories, traditions, and the land itself,” said mural artist Belen Islas. “With this mural, I hope to spark a spirit of connection and reflection, inviting visitors to share their own wisdom and to rediscover the beauty of learning from one another.” 

The San Francisco Main Library, located at 100 Larkin Street, is open Sunday: 12-6 p.m., Monday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-8 p.m., Friday: 12-6 p.m., and Saturday: 10-6 p.m. For more information, visit: sfpl.org/locations/main-library/about  [2] 

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About the Artist 
Belen Islas is a California-based artist whose work is shaped by the region’s cultural richness and her Indigenous heritage. Her community-focused practice is guided by research, engagement, and storytelling, with the belief that art can influence minds and transform lives. She has led public art projects with California State Parks, Starbucks, and youth groups, amplifying diverse voices and fostering healing through creativity. Islas’ work is held in collections across Mexico, Europe, the U.S., and Latin America. Learn more at belenislas.com [3] and on Instagram at @belenislas [4]. 
 

About Dr. Jonathan Cordero 
Jonathan Cordero (Ramaytush/Chumash) is Chairperson of the Ramaytush Tribe and Executive Director of the Association of Ramaytush Ohlone. He received a bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Berkeley and a doctorate from the University of California, Santa Barbara. In the arts, Jonathan works as an instructor, director, designer, and consultant. As a designer, Jonathan works with various artists to render Native visions of cultural significance. Recent works include “Care for Mother Earth,” “The Mirror of the Sea,” and “One Mother.” 

 

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About the San Francisco Arts Commission 
The San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) is the City agency that champions the arts as essential to daily life by investing in a vibrant arts community, enlivening the urban environment, and shaping innovative cultural policy. SFAC programs include the Civic Art Collection, Civic Design Review, Community Investments, Public Art, SFAC Galleries, and Art Vendor Licensing. Learn more at sfartscommission.org [5]. 

About the San Francisco Public Library 
The San Francisco Public Library is dedicated to free and equal access to information, knowledge, independent learning, and the joys of reading for all. SFPL is a vital civic institution that builds community, supports literacy and education, and celebrates cultural diversity. Learn more at sfpl.org. Learn more at sfpl.org [6]