SAN FRANCISCO, CA.- In an effort to encourage people to explore the Central Market neighborhood, seasoned multimedia producers researched and crafted stories that cut through the negative stereotypes of the neighborhood to feature the beauty and humanity of Central Market people and places. The podcast focuses on two blocks of Central Market that have recently been activated through dynamic arts programming under the auspices of The ARTery Project. These downloadable videos and audio segments bring depth to an underappreciated neighborhood.

"We recognize there are many great stories to tell and since we have been involved with the revitalization of this neighborhood through The ARTery Project, we have looked for creative ways to tell these stories," said Director of Cultural Affairs Luis R. Cancel. "In addition to two Culture Wire episodes, which we produce with SFGTV, this podcast will delve deeper into the sights and sounds that make Central Market unique."

The podcast features five sites: Piper's Jewelers, a shop where used items are bought, sold, and repaired and where quality craftsmanship is a family business; the American Conservatory Theater costume shop, where the internationally recognized theater and school manage their massive costume collection; the Warfield, one of the few historic theaters in the neighborhood and former home to an underground speakeasy run by Al Capone; the Hibernia Bank building, a survivor of the 1906 earthquake with remarkable architectural details; and the International Art Museum of America, a surreal oasis of spirituality and art on Market Street.

Produced by Arts Commission Program Manager Robynn Takayama, a Peabody-award-winning radio producer, Sights and Sounds of Central Market features work by local multimedia artists Stephanie Foo, producer for the NPR storytelling show, Snap Judgment; Kirthi Nath, an award-winning, South Asian independent filmmaker; with support from filmmaker R.J. Lozada and journalist Pauline Bartolone.

To see and hear these stories online, visit sfartscommission.org/podcast.