MIDDLETOWN, Calif. — The Middletown Art Center announced the commencement of the painting phase of the Water Basket project, a monumental effort to transform Middletown’s two water tanks on Rabbit Hill into vibrant 360-degree murals inspired by Pomo basketry.

This project celebrates the area’s history, people, and ecology through the lens of indigenous art, symbolizing the deep connection between the Pomo people and their land.

The project is a collaboration between Middletown Rancheria of Pomo Indians of California, Pomo artists, Callayomi County Water District and the Middletown Art Center.

It’s funded in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, with additional funding from the Middletown Rancheria, the water district and public support.

The selection process for the mural designs was comprehensive and inclusive. After careful consideration of over 20 designs, a jury of 14 local stakeholders chose six designs, which were then presented for public voting at several locations.

One of the selected artists for this project is Trelasa Baratta from the Middletown Rancheria Band of Pomo Indians.

“I come from the Chappo and Knight families of Middletown Rancheria. My grandpa Mace was born and raised in Middletown, California,” said Baratta. “They tell me my great uncle Jimmy used to live up on Rabbit Hill, where the water tanks stand today.”

Baratta’s designs pay tribute to her cultural legacy, incorporating personal variations of traditional Pomo basketry patterns.

The second design selected is by Graphic Designer Lorraine Triana Rueda. Originally from Columbia, Lorraine has lived in California for six years and moved to Lake County recently.

Her design weaves together the community's respect for the land with its rich heritage, incorporating symbolic patterns and motifs that honor both the local environment and Pomo culture.

“Being involved in creating this project has not only allowed me to contribute to the community but has also enriched my understanding of the local cultural heritage and deepened my connection with the environment around me. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of something that brings the community together and celebrates our shared story."

Additional information about the details and symbols incorporated in Trelasa Baratta’s and Loraine Triana Rueda’s designs can be found at www.middletownartcenter.org/waterbasket.

Now, with the designs finalized, the painting phase has commenced under the skilled hand of Xavier Piña, owner of West Coast Painter.

Piña, who has been painting since 1999, moved to Lake County 20 years ago from Los Angeles. He has made significant contributions to the local art scene, including collaborating on painting the first two murals in Lake County 14 years ago, one of which still adorns the water tank in Clearlake Oaks.

“Water Basket is a daunting project, but years of experience give me the confidence to tackle such a feat,” said Piña.

He and his crew approach this project with a blend of enthusiasm and expertise. They have employed “Egyptian style” techniques, using ropes, radii and markers to lay out the intricate design.

Piña’s carpentry skills have been invaluable, as the project requires precise measurements and strong math skills to handle the many angles involved. Reflecting on this and other large-scale painting projects he has accomplished, he remarked, “It’s like they just naturally flow out of me.”

Despite the summer heat, the team follows the shade around the water tank to stay cool, noting that the tanks themselves are surprisingly cool to the touch. The entire project is expected to take two months to complete.

Pat Giacomini from the Callayomi County Water District Board of Directors shared her excitement about the project. “Art and cultural history will come together in this project on the CCWD water tanks. This project will be an outstanding statement to the uniqueness of our community.”

Middletown Art Center is a Lake County nonprofit dedicated to engaging the public in art making, education, and appreciation. Through exhibitions, performances, workshops and community events, the art center provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, striving to create an inclusive and accessible space for all.

To learn more or to donate to support Water Basket and other MAC programs, visit www.middletownartcenter.org or call 707-809-8118. The MAC is located at 21456 State Highway 175 in Middletown.