We're In This Together: The Taraval Community Spirit

As we continue to respond to COVID-19, signs and images of support are sprouting across the city. Images include lighted windows forming the shape of hearts on high rise buildings, posters of encouraging words on residential properties and even local art. These are reminders that we are all in this together.

Bright and colorful art donated from local community members fill the window of Far Out Gallery, adoringly called by the acronym FOG, located in the Sunset Parkside District at Taraval and 40th Avenue.

Located along the L Taraval Improvement Project corridor, Anne Herbst and Peter Munks of the Far Out Gallery are a member of its working group that is making efforts to support the Taraval community and its vibrant neighborhood during construction. As both a resident and small business owner in the Taraval neighborhood, Anne and Peter are advocates of inspiring creativity through art and keeping Taraval’s vibrancy alive as we navigate through this difficult time.

When Anne made the call for local artwork to be displayed in the storefront’s window, the Taraval community responded and donated an influx of self-made, local art pieces.

Every art piece is as unique as the next and with words of encouragement that uplifts spirits, even in the current challenging times: “Be Kind. Be Safe. Be Well,” “We Shall Overcome,” and a list of “Suggested songs for the Big Shelter-in-Place,” cheer on onlookers and neighbors as they grab their morning coffee and pick up delicious take-outs nearby. The art-filled window highlights local artists in the area, while showcasing the fighting spirit of the tight-knit Taraval community. For those who would like to contribute, Far Out Gallery is continuing to accept art pieces through their mail slot.

Thanks to San Francisco businesses like Far Out Gallery for bringing the community together as we get through this difficult time together.