The City is planning to invest over $2.26 million in Art Enrichment funding towards the integration of public art into three capital improvement construction projects taking place in Chinatown: Portsmouth Square, Chinatown Public Health Center, and Chinatown Him Mark Lai Branch Library.
Chinatown Public Art Project Renderings: Portsmouth Square, Chinatown Public Health Center, and Chinatown Him Mark Lai Branch Library
Funding for this new iteration of projects in Chinatown is made possible by a combination of funding generated through the Art Enrichment Ordinance, or 2%-for-Art-Program, which mandates two percent of eligible gross construction costs of publicly funded capital improvement projects be allocated for public art, with additional funding from other State and City funding sources.
Portsmouth Square Improvement Project
Known as the “Living Room of Chinatown,” Portsmouth Square is a bustling public space rich in history. The artworks here will honor the square’s historical significance and foster a sense of community and belonging. The new public art commissions include a sculpture and an integrated wall work. Additional funding for these projects came from California State Assemblymember Phil Ting’s office, the San Francisco Recreation & Parks Department, and the Office of the City Administrator.
Learn more about the Portsmouth Square Improvement Project
Chinatown Public Health Center Renovation Project
Located on Powell Street between Washington and Jackson, this public library branch is a cornerstone of education and cultural exchange. The public art opportunity for this location is an integrated wall-mounted two-dimensional artwork. The selected artwork will inspire learning, celebrate knowledge, and reflect the library’s role as a community hub.
Learn more about the Chinatown Public Health Center Renovation Project
Chinatown Him Mark Lai Branch Library Renovation Project
Chinatown Him Mark Lai Branch Library is a cornerstone of education and cultural exchange. Located on Powell Street between Washington and Jackson, the name was changed in 1958 to more accurately reflect the community served. After renovation, the branch reopened on June 15, 1996. Chinatown Branch Library was renamed Chinatown/Him Mark Lai Branch Library on November 4, 2010. The public art opportunity for this location is an integrated wall-mounted two-dimensional artwork. The selected artwork should inspire learning, celebrate knowledge, and reflect the library’s role as a community hub.
Learn more about the Chinatown Branch Library Renovation Project