We the artists

In the current political climate — characterized by mass deportations, the elimination of transgender protections, and attacks on DEI initiatives — institutions around the country are being pressured to end their support of immigrant, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled communities. In light of this shift, we at ArtSpan are compelled to restate our commitment to support artists from historically marginalized communities towards greater equity, inclusion, and empowerment. We are reviving our #WeTheArtists campaign that spotlights SF Bay Area artists from underserved and intersectional communities. Through #WeTheArtists, ArtSpan will interview and highlight one artist each month, featuring them on our social media, webpage, newsletter. Artists are also promoted in ArtSpan’s SF Open Studios guide distributed throughout the Bay Area (~15,000 copies) in the fall. #WeTheArtists aims to elevate and celebrate the rich diversity of artists expressively creating in our vibrant city.

About #WeTheArtists: We believe art informs and reflects society. We recognize that the art world is overwhelmingly white and operates within systems that alienate and suppress communities of color. That’s why, in June 2020 — mobilized by the horrific murder of George Floyd — we drafted and published our Principles of Community & Cultural Equity statement. We then launched #WeTheArtists to engage with and amplify the voices of BIPOC artists and other creators from communities who have been historically overlooked and marginalized.

We recognize that ArtSpan’s actions are but one contribution to collective action. We hope that by holding space within our organization we can help BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled artists continue to find connection and community here in San Francisco.

Guest Curators

Shrey Purohit

Jes Distad

Jun Yang

Demetri Broxton

Alejandra Rubio

Jacqwi Campbell

Featured Artists

We the artists

© ArtSpan 2024