Arts Commission pre-authorizes Rec & Park temporary art at UN Plaza and Fulton Plaza

The San Francisco Arts Commission voted unanimously to approve a Recreation and Parks initiative to install temporary artworks at two downtown plazas, aiming to activate public space while streamlining review. The commission authorized the Director of Cultural Affairs to review and approve individual projects prior to installation.

The motion, introduced by Commissioner Susie Farris and moved by Commissioner Beltran with a second from Chiara, covers one site at the decomposed-granite planter adjacent to 50 UN Plaza and two locations on Fulton Plaza. Installations would be placed before Dec. 31, 2024, and may remain on display for up to two years. Mary Chu, director of civic-art collection and public art, told commissioners the projects might include painted roadway murals, sculptural work and light installations and that Rec & Park will secure permits, insurance and any necessary waivers for artwork on city property.

"The intent of these activations is to encourage folks to visit and spend time in the space with exciting new programming and activities," Chu said during the presentation.

Dana Ketchum of Recreation and Parks said the department will coordinate closely with the Arts Commission on appropriateness and logistics and emphasized that the vote is a procedural pre-authorization to allow quick movement when funding or proposals become available. Commissioners expressed support for the citywide activation agenda and encouraged staff to consider commercial corridors and neighborhood sites beyond the downtown core.

The commission approved the motion without public comment. Next steps for staff include finalizing selection criteria, confirming site-specific logistics with Rec & Park, and returning to the commission if projects require additional approvals.