Humanity’s ongoing destruction of the natural world is, in part, the result of a growing disconnection from its appreciation, wonder, and awe. Research shows that experiences of awe foster a deeper sense of connection, empathy, and care, which are essential drivers of environmental stewardship and climate action as well as human wellbeing and quality of life. 

Without this emotional bond, efforts toward a regenerative economy, climate solutions and climate justice risk feeling abstract or disconnected from lived experience. San Francisco Biennale “Art, Nature, and Ecology” addresses that gap by reigniting a sense of awe and reverence for nature, inspiring people not only to appreciate it, but also to protect it and engage in climate and other environmental solutions more actively. The biennale will feature artists whose works are rooted in the awe of nature and its relationship to our quality of life.

Art is a powerful medium to evoke transformation. We use art to evoke the awe and wonder of nature, helping people reconnect with its beauty and, in turn, fostering deeper appreciation and responsibility toward protecting life on Earth. 

While art has long been used to explore the human–nature relationship this only underscores the resonance and relevance of our approach, what sets our project apart is our focus on building an engaged community rather than only hosting a bi-annual event and selling art. Our model creates a space where artists, changemakers, and the public can connect, collaborate to sustain their engagement beyond the exhibition itself. This community and institution-centered approach ensures lasting impact, while also positioning our initiative as the first event of its kind in San Francisco, further amplifying its cultural and civic significance.

San Francisco, an internationally known city, is a natural home for this biennale: historically recognized as one of the most environmentally progressive cities in the world; a city that has the most publicly accessible permanent works by Andy Goldsworthy in North America, a British sculptor and environmental artist known for creating ephemeral, site-specific works from natural materials that reveal the beauty and impermanence of nature; and as the birthplace of iconic artists such as Ansel Adams, an American photographer and environmentalist renowned for his black-and-white landscapes of the American West which elevated nature photography to fine art, it offers a cultural mindset that perfectly aligns with our mission. By situating the event here, we not only honor the city’s legacy of environmental leadership and artistic excellence but also extend that tradition into a contemporary, global climate conversation.

We believe that a Biennale amplifies our mission and will ultimately benefit the City of San Francisco. We curate a cultural biennial featuring artist awards, insightful climate talks, and creative publications through which we will actively recognize a select group of the best San Francisco & international artists. We organize the first edition of San Francisco Biennale of Contemporary Art to generate new and diverse excitement about the city.

To further our service, our next goals will be to:

- develop and maintain a highly visible online platform that serves as the reference point for contemporary San Francisco artists and other participating artists

- foster a supportive community among art professionals, contemporary artists, art collectors, art supporters, and related organizations in San Francisco and eventually around the world.

The San Francisco Biennale will be a multi-day event that recognizes excellence in the arts and provides additional support for the winning artists.

Arts Humanitas Inc. was formed in the United States under the California State Not-For-Profit Corporation Law. It is organized and operated exclusively for exempt purposes set forth in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For those based in the US, your donation is 100% tax-deductible, and you will be issued a receipt for the IRS.

• Every gift amount is spent directly on the artistic and operational activities focused on:

ART EVENTS & GENERAL PROGRAMMING

Your gift will enable us to organize the SF Biennale, including supporting events successfully, and to support winning artists who can create new works to be presented to the public or at companies. 

PROGRAM INSIGHTS

Your gift will help us develop insights through surveys, interviews, and data analytics that will improve AH events and educate us about the biennial's capacity to act as an engine for urban development, social transformation, and the creation of a collaborative culture across varied industries in San Francisco.

NETWORK

We believe the SF Biennale successfully creates a platform for new, creative work and unprecedented collaborations. Your gift will help us support networking among emerging and established artists, industry professionals, and the communities that host them.

Mutually beneficial partnerships and sponsorships are integral to our collaborative efforts.

Arts Humanitas is open to partnering with governmental or non-governmental organizations that align with our vision and aim to enhance each other's missions. Please send us a message to learn more about sponsorships and partnerships.