"Board of Directors has decided to deny the proposal, as the artwork does not align with the core of the RCDTC’s mission to manage, conserve, improve, and enjoy the natural resources of Tehama County. "
Brin Greer
Wed, Jan 15, 9:38 AM
Dear Jessica,
In the spirit of open communication, we’re pleased to share the following updates:
In collaboration with the Tehama County/Red Bluff Chamber of Commerce, we are delighted to invite you and members of the Helen & Joe Chew Foundation to our Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, January 30th, at 11:30 AM at 202-206 Walnut Street.
Regarding the World War II mural proposed by the Chew Foundation, we greatly appreciate its powerful design and the tribute it pays to the honorable service of Chinese Americans. However, after careful consideration, our Board of Directors has decided to deny the proposal, as the artwork does not align with the core of the RCDTC’s mission to manage, conserve, improve, and enjoy the natural resources of Tehama County. In its place, the Board has approved an exterior acknowledgment plaque to honor the historical significance of the Chew Yuen Building and celebrate Chinese American contributions to our local, regional, and national cultural heritage.
We look forward to welcoming the new year with your organization and honoring the beautiful history of our new home.
Warm regards,
Brin Greer
Resource Conservation District of Tehama County
Project Manager
(530) 727-1295
Tehama Conservation Fund
www.tehamaconservationfund.org
Jessica Chew <jessica@redbluffchew.org>
Wed, Dec 18, 2024, 12:58 PM
Thank you for your email and for providing the detailed requirements for reviewing our proposed Chinese American WWII mural for 202-204 Walnut Street. I am happy to share that this mural helps to align the RCDC’s mission to preserve both natural and cultural resources.
Artwork
The mural design is complete, see attached. This mural was based on the U.S. Mint read about its meaning: https://news.va.gov/82179/chinese-american-wwii-veterans-receive-congressional-gold-medal/
“ The obverse design depicts Chinese American servicemen and a nurse, representing all United States service branches in World War II and highlighting that they fought in every theater with honor.” & commemorates the resilience, dedication, and contributions of Chinese Americans during World War II, a pivotal time in history that led to the repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act and allowed Chinese immigrants to obtain U.S. citizenship for the first time. This mural represents more than just an artistic endeavor; it is a tribute to the resilience and contributions of Chinese Americans in shaping Tehama County’s history and the nation’s path toward equality. The mural commemorates the significant role of Chinese Americans during World War II—a pivotal moment in history that led to the repeal of the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act. For the first time, Chinese immigrants were granted the opportunity to become U.S. citizens, a historic shift that reshaped the American narrative.
Scope of Work
1. Artist Selection:
The mural is being created by Candy Kuo, a renowned local artist with experience in community-themed murals. The artist was selected based on the requirements of the grant to fund the endeavor and was a weighted based criterion of 12 committee members based on her ability to convey the Congressional Gold Medal through visual art.2. Dimensions and Placement:
The mural will be composed of 7’ x 7’ split into 2 wood panels. See attached for placement
3. Installation Materials and Methods:
The mural was created with a weather-resistant paint on the panels, installation is by anchoring brackets, and will be installed by the mural artist. If the mural is damaged our nonprofit will make its best efforts to repair or replace it via grant funding. If it is destroyed in its entirety it will not be replaced.
4. Timeline:
The project timeline is as follows:
• Artwork Installation: September 2026
• Expected Completion: 1 day
5. Maintenance Schedule:
The mural will be maintained as needed by the mural artist to ensure its preservation. The mural has a UV protection application.
6. Responsibilities:
• Mural Team: Candy Kuo and Tehama Creatives
• Resource Conservation District of Tehama County: Provide wall access and approval for installation.
7. Timeframe for Installation and Removal:
The mural is intended to remain in place for its useful life. If removal is required, we will coordinate with the property owner and city to ensure proper procedures are followed.
8. Representing the Tehama Way of Life: This mural reflects Tehama County’s diverse origins, focusing on the Chinese immigrants who built a vibrant Chinatown including 202-204 Walnut Street, Red Bluff CA and It highlights figures such as the Traditional Chinese Medicine doctors who built, owned and operated at 202 Walnut Street. This building holds deep historical significance, as it housed the last traditional Chinese doctors in Tehama County’s Chinatown. The design incorporates imagery of these original settlers, tying their legacy to the broader story of perseverance and cultural contributions.
9. Representing the Resource Conservation District Services:
When the Resource Conservation District of Tehama County (RCDC) purchased 202-204 Walnut Street, it was relayed several times regarding the importance of preserving and honoring Tehama County’s rich Chinese heritage. This mural helps to align the RCDC’s mission to preserve both natural and cultural resources. This mural reflects a promise of telling the story of the county’s early Chinese settlers, who built a vibrant community despite adversity.
The mural highlights the original settlers of historic Chinatown, including the last traditional Chinese doctors who worked at this very location and helped many immigrate through angel island. By celebrating the rich cultural history of this community, the mural promotes stewardship, education, and a shared sense of responsibility to honor the past while inspiring future generations.
It also reflects the unity, resilience, and contributions of Chinese Americans across the nation, showcasing shared values of hard work, patriotism, and service that define Tehama County’s identity. By celebrating the rich cultural history of this community, the mural promotes education, and a shared sense of responsibility to honor the past while inspiring future generations.
Heart of the mural is more than a visual celebration—it is a call to remember and honor those who shaped our community. It preserves an important chapter of Tehama County’s history while recognizing the broader significance of World War II, a moment in time that marked both the end of the Chinese Exclusion Act and the beginning of citizenship for Chinese Americans.
By sharing these stories, the mural fosters a collective responsibility to cherish our heritage and recognize the strength of our shared values. It stands as a testament to the courage and patriotism of the Chinese American community and their enduring impact on Tehama County and beyond.
I hope this provides the clarity and context you need to evaluate this meaningful project. Please let me know if there are any additional details you’d like, and I look forward to working with you to bring this mural to life.
Best regards,