It's one of the reasons why I love San Francisco so much. The people are so open minded to change, to fixing problems, and to embrace diversity and individuality. In an article on the sfgate.com, Taylor Street which is described as "seediest stretches in San Francisco, filled with homeless people slumped against vacant storefronts, the stench of urine, graffiti, drugs and crime," is being transformed into an art district.
The transformation began today with the beginning constructions of the Gray Area Foundation of the Arts. It is replacing a 4,000 sq ft building that was once a porn theater. Gray Area is hoping to open with art gallerys, art studios, and a new media lab. Buildings near by will turn into new botiques selling art supplies and a cafe will replace a liquor store. The director of Gray Area, Josette Melchor, is so dedicated to the art district, that she moved into a near by apartment. Melchor states, "I wouldn't be moving here if I didn't see the vision." She also mentions that the plan will create affordable areas where artists can work, but will make sure not to displace the low income residents already in the area.
According to the article, "Gray Area will host exhibits, music events and a resident-artists program that will provide studios and exhibit space to four artists on a rotating basis." As someone who love the arts, loves San Francisco, and appreciates any effort to save history and create beauty and creativity, I am very excited to see where this plan will go and hopefully visit this art district in the future.
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