San Francisco’s Pier 29 Set to Become a Thriving Hub for Artists and Creatives

Big news for the Bay Area arts scene — Pier 29 is getting a brand-new palette as San Francisco’s largest artist studio and exhibition space, thanks to an exciting partnership between the San Francisco Port Commission and Community Arts Stabilization Trust (CAST).

In a unanimous decision, the Port Commission officially greenlit the lease agreement that will transform the historic waterfront pier into a vibrant cultural playground. Think artist residencies, public exhibitions, immersive workshops, and creative programs designed to breathe new life into the Embarcadero. After years of underuse since the 2013 America’s Cup, the waterfront is finally getting its artistic spark back.

"Our arts and culture are driving San Francisco’s comeback," said Mayor Daniel Lurie, celebrating the move as a win not just for artists but for the entire city. The project aims to draw locals and visitors alike to a waterfront destination buzzing with creativity.

At the heart of the project is CAST’s vision for reclaiming underutilized spaces for community use. CEO Ken Ikeda shared that Pier 29 is just the beginning — a model for how neglected spaces across the Bay Area (and beyond) can be reimagined for artists and cultural organizations.

One particularly exciting piece of this project is Art + Water, a residency program co-led by renowned author and educator Dave Eggers alongside JD Beltran. Their program will offer affordable six-month residencies where artists can both create and teach, addressing the urgent need for accessible studio spaces and affordable art education in San Francisco.

Pier 29 will feature a  47,000-square-foot indoor event space and a 23,000-square-foot outdoor area, making it one of the most ambitious arts projects on the West Coast. Plans include free public performances, hands-on workshops, and a walk-in gallery where visitors can experience art being made — and even take a piece of the city’s creativity home.

In a time when the Bay Area's artists are constantly battling rising costs and shrinking studio spaces, this transformation of Pier 29 signals opportunity and a recommitment to the arts as the heart of San Francisco.

Stay tuned — Pier 29 is about to become one of the city's brightest cultural beacons!