The San Francisco Arts Commission has taken significant steps to enhance the local art scene by approving the StreetSmarts mural program and launching a new Mentorship and Exhibition Fellowship aimed at supporting emerging artists in the Bay Area.

During a recent government meeting, the commission approved the StreetSmarts mural program, which connects artists with private property owners and city departments to create vibrant murals. This initiative is designed to enhance the character of neighborhoods throughout San Francisco. With this approval, 33 artists will be added to the program's artist pool, allowing for a broader range of artistic expression across the city.

In addition to the mural program, the commission introduced the Mentorship and Exhibition Fellowship, which aims to provide resources and exhibition space for emerging artists. This program, supported by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), will culminate in an exhibition at the SFAC main gallery in September 2024. The fellowship selected two artists from a competitive pool of 169 applicants: Sun Park, a visual artist and writer from San Francisco, and Shireen Kaladbari, an artist and educator based in Berkeley. Both artists bring unique perspectives and experiences to their work, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of the Bay Area.

The fellowship will be guided by curator Shireen Macaremi, who has a strong background in supporting local artists and facilitating exhibitions. This initiative not only aims to foster artistic talent but also to enrich the community's cultural fabric.

These developments highlight the San Francisco Arts Commission's commitment to promoting the arts and supporting local artists, ultimately enhancing the vibrancy and character of the city for its residents. As these programs unfold, they promise to create more opportunities for artistic engagement and community connection.