Finding Filipino in San Francisco, 2023 Art on Market Street
- May 7, 2023
- 2 min read
There are three months in a calendar year when Filipino history, community legacy, contributions and accomplishments are highlighted and well celebrated. We have June to celebrate the Philippine Independence Day (June 12, 1898 from Spain), and the birthday of Dr. Jose Rizal. October, since 1992, is celebrated as the Filipino American History Month while May is celebrated as the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
I spent my Saturday morning walk by visiting the SFMTA transit shelters to see the installation of Finding Filipino, the second of four poster installments that have been commissioned for the 2023 Art on Market Street Poster Series program by the San Francisco Arts Commission.
Finding Filipino features 9 illustrated vignettes by Oakland-based artist Rina Ayuyang that commemorate the history and contributions made by the Filipino community in San Francisco. The works will be on view along Market Street between 7th and Steuart streets at 15 SFMTA transit shelters through June 2023.
"The second poster series in our 2023 Art on Market Street Poster Series program is a poignant tribute to the rich legacy of the Filipino community in San Francisco,” said Ralph Remington, Director of Cultural Affairs. “The artist’s stunning artwork and personal storytelling helps spotlights the numerous contributions of Filipino Americans and offers a glimpse into the many facets and traditions of their community."
The nine posters in Finding Filipino highlights various San Francisco neighborhoods, landmarks, and annual events around the City as they relate to Filipino American history, culture, and community. As one of the largest Asian groups in California, the Filipino community has faced a constant struggle for representation, especially in media and politics. Ayuyang believes that the Poster Series is an ideal platform to raise awareness of the Filipino community's stories of adversity, while also celebrating its triumphs.
As historian and a community strategist, I find the Finding Filipino poster series as a good introduction in learning and understanding the history of our people and the designation of SoMa Pilipinas as Filipino Cultural Heritage District in San Francisco and in California. I encourage and invite you and your relatives and friends to visit San Francisco to see these Finding Filipino art works.
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