Help Keep Hella Positive Gallery Thriving!
My name is Ebrahim, and I run the Hella Positive Gallery located at 1606 7th St in West Oakland, CA. I’ve been here for over five years, opening our doors in November 2019. What started as an idea more than 13 years ago has grown from stickers and clothing into a vibrant art gallery and community space.
As the pandemic began to subside, I recognized my role and impact on 7th Street. I realized that I could be a vital resource for our community, becoming an engaged leader and entrepreneur dedicated to organizing programs that promote positivity and support those in need—everyone in our community.
Since March 2022, we’ve hosted our first impactful program: “Happy Management: Veterans Night at Hella Positive.” This event takes place on the first of every month from 4-7 PM, inviting veterans to enjoy free food in a peaceful, supportive environment. We aim to foster community and provide a space for veterans to practice “Happy Management.” At the end of the night, participants receive a compassionate distribution bag from our community partner, ReCompass—all under the uplifting atmosphere of the Hella Positive Gallery.
Our second major initiative is “Community + Service Day,” which began in March 2023. Every other Tuesday until January 2024, we distributed 50 pre-cooked meals to the 7th Street community, inviting community members to pick up meals at the gallery. Although we have faced challenges in sourcing meals since January, we have consistently collected clothing donations, fruits, bread, vegetables, along with reusable water bottles filled with water, personal hygiene supplies, and other resources we were able to collect. This event is open to everyone, creating a space where regulars come not just for essentials but also to connect with our dedicated volunteers.
People know they can stop by for a bottle of water or, on Saturdays, a cup of coffee and a pastry. If someone needs assistance, I’m always here to help.
We also host gallery openings and closings featuring local Bay Area artists, with installations typically lasting about two months. Our most recent show, “X-Folx: Artists of the Atom,” showcased over 16 talented local artists and was one of our largest exhibitions to date.
As we continue to engage with the community through new and exciting initiatives, Hella Positive Gallery has become a staple not just for 7th Street but for the Bay Area. We plan to remain here, but I need your help to keep this space alive.
Running a business in Oakland is challenging, and I’ve witnessed many long-standing businesses close their doors or leave the area. Here’s what Hella Positive needs:
• Help with Rent: $1,500 will bring us current for October.
• PG&E: $200 (as much as I’d prefer not to, I have to).
• Floor Repair: $250 for a weak spot that’s currently covered.
• Paint Supplies: $70 to refresh our walls for the next gallery showcase.
Total Needed: $2,020
Your support will ensure that Hella Positive Gallery continues to be a beacon of positivity and community connection. Thank you for helping us keep this vital space open!
Check out our instagram to see more of what we do at Hella Positive.