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November 26, 2001
Local Artists Feature 21st-Century AIDS/HIV Issues and Survivors in Sidewalk Exhibition through February 15
A middle-aged man named Kumara writes, "Living with AIDS/HIV for 15 years ain't for the faint of heart. I had to let go of being a victim and begin to participate in my life, and when I did, things changed for the good." He is one of several San Francisco people who local artists Sharon Siskin, Nancer LeMoins and Robert Corti feature in "Still Here," a collection of original poster art focusing on 21st-century AIDS/HIV and those who struggle with it. The San Francisco Arts Commission is exhibiting the posters on sidewalk kiosks along Market Street, between The Embarcadero and Van Ness Avenue, through February 15, 2002. A total of 24 posters-four copies each of six original designs-are on display. The artists combine tinted photographic images and handwritten stories into a format designed to resemble old-fashioned picture postcards labeled "Greetings from Market Street." The people featured in the posters live at the Derek Silva Community, a Market Street residence managed by Catholic Charities for low- or no-income people with AIDS/HIV. Sharon Siskin has been an artist in residence at the complex since 1988, and calls her 13-year project "Positive Art." She and collaborators Corti and LeMoins (both collaborators are Derek Silva residents) give workshops in printmaking, photography, and video. "It’s a little art school," says Siskin. "We have teachers who are HIV-positive, and classes are open to everyone who lives there. Some come because they've always wanted to try art. Others have discovered it as a way to create your message and get it out there." There will be reception for the artists and participants on Saturday, December 1, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m., at the Derek Silva Community, 1594 Market Street.