OXNARD — The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC) are thrilled to announce the installation of a new mural titled “Don’t Forget The Neighborhood,” created by renowned Santa Barbara-based muralist D.J. Javier. This striking mural, located under the Third Street Bridge in Downtown Oxnard, serves as a powerful visual representation of the city’s diverse and dynamic community and will be installed Monday through Friday, August 25-30, 2025.
Measuring an impressive 14.5 feet tall by 72 feet wide, the mural is one of the key gateways welcoming both visitors and residents to Downtown Oxnard. The artwork showcases a series of vibrant characters that reflect the cultural richness and unique identity of the city. These include a musician with a skateboard, a soccer player, a street vendor and cart featuring the word “OXNARD” and a strawberry, a hip hop dancer, and a Filipino character holding a set of vintage-style car keys with a nostalgic key fob, referencing the city’s car culture. The mural’s design was thoughtfully crafted to celebrate Oxnard’s residents, a snapshot of what you might see on a Sunday afternoon at a local park.
In describing the inspiration behind the mural, D.J. Javier shared, “The city of Oxnard is a rich mosaic of the community members that create it, all bringing different perspectives, interests, activities, and culture. Although a single work of art cannot capture every individual member, the hope is that the artwork embodies a bigger picture of the vibrant tapestry of the people of Oxnard.”
The mural’s title takes inspiration from Oxnard musician, Cola Boyy (Matthew Urango), who passed away unexpectedly earlier this year. One of Cola Boyy’s most popular songs was “Don’t Forget Your Neighborhood,” a testament to his love and commitment to the City.
This project represents a significant collaboration between the Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association and OPAC, both committed to enhancing the city’s cultural landscape through creative placemaking and artistic vibrancy. The project was made possible with support from the City of Oxnard who funded this public art project through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Additional support was provided by H&E Equipment Services, ASIS Painting, and Firestone.
The public is invited to visit the mural and experience this stunning addition to Oxnard’s growing collection of public art. The official unveiling will take place on Saturday, September 7 from 12 noon to 2 pm with a brief ceremony featuring remarks from the artist and special guests, live entertainment including dance performances by Alias Dance, hands-on activities, and other surprises.
About D.J. Javier
D.J. Javier is a Santa Barbara-based Filipino-American artist whose dynamic work spans across fine art, graphic design, large scale murals and consumer goods. His body of work is a vibrant testament to his cultural heritage, personal experiences and the countercultural landscapes of Southern California. Javier’s art is recognized for its unique blend of bold silhouettes and bright colors, often featuring motifs that explore his cultural identity as a first-generation Filipino American reflecting a deeper engagement with his roots.
Javier has collaborated with clients that include Vans, Netflix, Star Wars, Shake Shack, Spiderman, Billabong, LA Rams, LA Kings, LAFC, Adidas, Amazon and is a global ambassador for Stance. DJ has been covered in publications such as Juxtapose, Surfer’s Journal, CNN and the LA Times and gave a Tedx talk in 2024.
About the Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA):
The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) is a dynamic, non-profit corporation dedicated to making downtown Oxnard a great place to live, work and play. As the leading advocate for downtown, DOIA works in partnership with business and government to identify needs, develop strategies, shape public policy and implement programs to strengthen the economic vitality of downtown Oxnard and its role as the historic and cultural heart of the community.
About the Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC):
Established in 1998, The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation’s mission is to foster and serve the community through inclusive programming, cultural and artistic exchange, and developing people-centered spaces. OPAC provides cultural and community programming by supporting, producing and presenting theater, dance, music, media/visual arts, residencies, and outside-the-box programs that are of, by and for the community.
“Don’t Forget The Neighborhood” Mural Reception
Oxnard Blvd & 3rd Street
Oxnard, CA 93030
Saturday, September 7, 2025 from 12 noon to 2 pm
Free and open to the public