People We Meet Illuminaries add the Excelsior to their graffiti resume

Tim Hon and Eric Nodora of the Illuminaries collective are painting a mural at Billiard Palacade in San Francisco's Excelsior District, aiming to uplift public spaces through vibrant graffiti art. Their approach counters the common association of graffiti with gang violence, focusing instead on commissioned projects that beautify the community. This mural is a collaborative effort with other artists like Peng and Cheph, who have transformed the wall since 2007. Hon emphasized the importance of quality, stating they prefer to take their time rather than rush the project. The Illuminaries' work is well-known across the Bay Area, with past projects including significant murals in Oakland.

Their commitment to encouraging the next generation of artists was evident when Hon invited a young boy to participate in the mural. This project represents a shift in graffiti culture from vandalism to legitimate art, providing a positive local impact. The Illuminaries continue to redefine graffiti in the Bay Area, showcasing the potential of public art.