London Breed isn't just sitting around waiting for San Francisco's storied Chinatown to get the artistic uplift it deserves. In a move that echoes the city's ongoing dedication to cultural enrichment and community investment, the Mayor has called upon artists from sea to shining sea to be part of creating an indelible mark in this historical neighborhood. According to the City and County of San Francisco, the launch of the Chinatown Artist Registry is a first-of-its-kind call to artists with a tangible bond to Chinatown, setting the stage for fresh, publicly-funded art projects.
The San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) is teaming up with the Chinese Culture Center (CCC) of San Francisco, bolstering the ranks of artists for a trio of impending art pieces slated for key locales like Portsmouth Square and the neighborhood's Health Center. Those with past residency, personal ties, or simply heartfelt connections to Chinatown are encouraged to throw their names into the hat. Despite its San Francisco focus, eligibility is open to U.S. artists or those represented by a domestic art organization on good terms with the Arts Commission.
The City is allocating over $2 million for these artistic initiatives. This substantial funding encompasses sculptures, wall art, and two-dimensional pieces designed to captivate and provoke contemplation. The overarching goal is to celebrate Chinatown's heritage while honoring San Francisco's diverse cultural fabric. Mayor London Breed highlighted that these spaces serve essential purposes for Chinatown residents, including immigrant families, for planned services and social activities.
Ralph Remington, Director of Cultural Affairs for SFAC, emphasizes the role of public art in shaping and revitalizing urban life. He underscores the significance of artworks that articulate and pay homage to the neighborhood's distinctive character, building upon past efforts such as the Bayview artist registry in 2018. According to the City and County of San Francisco, this registry will showcase under-represented artists, ensuring they are integral to the city's ongoing narrative rather than mere footnotes.
For those interested in participating, the RFQ (Request for Qualifications) deadline is September 11—a pivotal opportunity detailed on SFAC's website. Against a backdrop of culturally sensitive care and the celebration of AAPI heritage, these projects assume heightened importance. Dr. Grant Colfax of the San Francisco Department of Public Health emphasizes the critical role of culturally competent care in safeguarding community health and well-being. City Librarian Michael Lambert anticipates that new art installations at key sites like the SF Chinatown/Him Mark Lai Library will serve as poignant reminders of shared history.
