Public Art Program

Cupid's Span

Artists and sponsors can display temporary art installations on Port property through the Port’s Public Art Program.  

Public art can be physical or visual art in any artistic medium, whether temporary or permanent.

Artists and sponsors can get involved through: 

  • Open Calls/Requests for Art accepted as part of a competition (Request for Proposals)
  • Sponsored Proposals submitted by artists or sponsors. 

 

Open Calls/Requests for Art 

The Port may ask for proposals for public art installations along the waterfront.   

For citywide opportunities, visit the San Francisco Arts Commission.  

Requests for Art will be posted to the Port's Contracts webpage.

Artist-Sponsored Proposals 

An artist or organization may request to display their art on Port property for up to 24 months through an application review process. 

The art is displayed at the artist or sponsor’s own expense, including maintenance and liability. 

Artist-sponsored proposals are reviewed in February, June, and October. 

Submit a Proposal

Review Process 

Artist-sponsored proposals are reviewed in February, June, and October. Port Community Advisory Committees (CACs) and the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) may review proposals when required. 

Proposals may be presented at the Port Commission before being considered for final approval by the Executive Director. 

Proposals are reviewed using the Criteria for Artist Sponsored Art outlined in the Public Art Program (add link): 

  • There is a compelling reason for the art to be on the waterfront. 
  • The art has merit as a work of art. 
  • The art enhances the waterfront experience. 
  • The art encourages diverse artists or styles. 
  • The art aligns with the sustainability, accessibility and cultural inclusiveness of the Port and City. 
  • The art’s size compliments its surroundings. 
  • Community supports the art at that location. The art must be able to withstand being outside and maintained by the artist/sponsor for the whole time on display. 
  • The art is not a safety hazard. 
  • The art is feasible to create, install and display. This includes costs, schedules, artist’s skill, and materials. 
  • Artist or sponsors cover all costs of the art, including creation, installation and maintenance. 

Locations 

Artists may suggest a location to install the temporary art that must be approved by Port staff. 

Large temporary installations must be placed somewhere with enough space and circulation. 

Large temporary installation locations include, but are not limited to: 

  • Pier 45 
  • Tip of Public Access at Pier 29 
  • Cruise Terminal Plaza at Pier 27 
  • Pier 7 
  • WETA Plaza 
  • Harry Bridges Plaza 
  • Pier 14 
  • Brannan Street Wharf 
  • Crane Cove Park 
  • Bayview Gateway 
  • Heron’s Head Park 

The Port may waive license and permit fees if: 

  • The art benefits the waterfront. 
  • The location is not currently generating revenue. 
  • The art does not displace other uses. 
  • The art impacts little to no Port expenses or revenue sources. 

Waiving of any fees must be approved by the Port’s Executive Director.  

artprogram@sfport.com