Union Square has a unique new resident. A new gallery space focused on art and technology recently opened in a formerly vacant location in Downtown San Francisco, just a block from the historic square. The new gallery, called The Intersection of Art and Technology (TIAT), is a local nonprofit that opened the new space under the Vacant to Vibrant program.
The media arts gallery recently took over a massive downtown venue, featuring an exhibition by 23 artists. The gallery focuses on the connection between technology and art, and you can expect interactive works, robotics, and artworks made with technology.
The gallery started as small meet-ups with local artists, and soon grew to larger events that led to the creation of the gallery space now.
“We think of TIAT as equal parts gallery and community hub. We show established new media artists alongside emerging voices, because the scene needs both.”, said Leia Chang, TIAT board member. “It’s a place to get inspired, experiment, learn something, or just be around other creatives. Basically, a space that’s here for the community.”
Organizers plan to host events, such as workshops, screenings, and more, for local artists in the new space. Board members envision the space and the future of the nonprofit as a way for people to create and share new ideas.
For now, under the Vacant to Vibrant program, the lease is temporary, but TIAT will remain in the Union Square location until at least the end of the year. It is one of five new businesses under the Vacant to Vibrant initiative, which places local businesses in vacant storefronts with temporary short-term leases. The program launched in 2023 and has since helped 26 pop-up businesses, with many extending their leases.
TIAT is currently open from 12 to 6 pm Tuesday through Friday, and 11 am to 5 pm on weekends. Admission to the gallery is a suggested $5 to help support the nonprofit. You can learn more about TIAT here.
Location: 151 Powell Street