Public Art Proposal Display
Art Proposals for Gene Friend Recreation Center Public Art Project
The San Francisco Arts Commission is conducting a review process to choose an artist to create an integrated wall artwork for the interior north-facing wall of the gymnasium at the new Gene Friend Recreation Center at the corner of 6th and Folsom Streets. The artwork should illuminate the rich history and full diversity of San Francisco’s SOMA neighborhood including recognition of SOMA Pilipinas, the Filipino Cultural Heritage District. The artwork should also lift up the Center as a destination and proud neighborhood asset. Three artists were chosen as finalists by a Public Art Review Panel to design site-specific proposals for this artwork opportunity: Adrian Arias, Cece Carpio, and ChiChai Mateo.
Gene Friend 康樂中心公共藝術專案的藝術提案
Panukala para sa likhang sining para sa Gene Friend Recreation Center Proyekto para sa Pampublikong Sining
Propuestas de Arte para el Centro de Recreación Gene Friend
In the heart of California's Ohlone territory, the Gene Friend Recreation Center hosts a vibrant public artwork on the wall of its multipurpose gym, a communal space where people come together to share interests and celebrate both cultural activities and sports events.
Barrio Fiesta translates to a neighborhood celebration bringing communities together where everyone is welcome as guests and active participants. San Francisco’s SOMA district was one of my first stomping grounds after migrating to the United States at twelve years old. My experience of SOMA through the decades is remarkably similar to a Barrio Fiesta, allowing me to explore all aspects of convergence. Personally rooted in my culture and the Bay Area, I understand this design opportunity is part storytelling and part building décor- a signature amenity that puts Gene Friend Recreation Center and Barrio Fiesta on the map.
Our Barrio demonstrates how the Gene Friend Recreation Center (GFRC) is a community anchor for SOMA Pilipinas—the Filipino Cultural Heritage District—and also for the various backgrounds of our neighbors here. In my artwork proposal it is my intention to reflect how GFRC is a safe haven for SOMA, especially for the district’s overlooked families. Black and Brown joy, dreams and aspirations gather here. That’s what Our Barrio is about.
Opportunity For Public Comment