Dan Fontes (giraffe muralist) Public Memorial @ Pacific Pinball Museum Friday 8/21, 6-10pm
From the Pacific Pinball Museum Facebook page:
Please join the nonprofit Pacific Pinball Museum, The East Bay arts community, friends and family on Friday, August 21, 2026 to honor the life, brilliant career and lasting cultural legacy of beloved local artist Dan Fontes. 🙏🏻
The public memorial, themed "Celebrating Dan Fontes: A Night of Life, Art, and Pinball," will take place here at the PPM in Alameda from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM - entry will be free to all during the Memorial.
Fontes, who passed away from cancer in late April 2026 at the age of 67, leaves behind an unparalleled visual stamp on the San Francisco Bay Area. Best known for his monumental public works, Fontes famously transformed concrete urban expanses into vibrant sanctuaries of nature. His most legendary creations include the "Giraphics" giraffe murals and striking zebra portraits under the Interstate 580 overpasses in Oakland, as well as the colossal "Emergent Sea Turtles" mural off Interstate 880.
Beyond his public street art, Fontes was a foundational force in the regional art scene, starting in the radical driftwood galleries of the Emeryville Mudflats in the 1970s. He later lent his immense talents to the preservation of history as a longtime board member and painter of signature interior historical murals for the Pacific Pinball Museum, making the venue the perfect backdrop to celebrate his spirit.
A major highlight of the evening will be the presentation of an official proclamation from the City of Oakland, honoring Fontes’ massive impact on the culture, beauty, and vibrance of the city he loved so much. The evening's formal ceremony will begin at 8:00 PM and will be officiated by Spiritual Healer Brenda Salgado. Moving musical tributes will be performed throughout the night by Amie Penwell.
"Dan gave so much color and joy to Oakland and the Bay Area," noted event co-hosts Kristine Holohan and Julie Lucchesi. "Let’s gather to remember him the best way we know how, with community, music, pinball, and love."
All who were touched by Dan's life, mentorship, or art are invited to attend, share their favorite stories, play pinball, and raise a glass to a legendary artist and beautiful soul.
Memorial Event Details:
What: Celebrating Dan Fontes: A Night of Life, Art, and Pinball
When: Friday, August 21, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Ceremony at 8:00 PM)
Where: The Pacific Pinball Museum, 1510 Webster St, Alameda, CA 94501
Parking: Available in the rear of the building
Admission: Free and open to the public for the duration 6pm to 10pm (No RSVP required)