California Construction News staff writer
The Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Center (APICC) and Kulintang Arts (KULARTS) have officially acquired 262 7th Street, where they plan to establish a new multidisciplinary performance space focused on Asian- and Filipino-American diasporic arts.
Located in San Francisco’s historic Filipino Cultural Heritage District, the APICC/KULARTS Performing Arts Space will be among the few venues in the country dedicated to Filipino and Asian-American inclusive arts.
Once renovations are completed, the space will serve as a home base for both organizations and act as a cultural anchor for the SOMA community. “San Francisco’s arts scene continues to gain recognition, and we’re proud to support some of the most respected artists and creators,” said Vinay Patel, Executive Director of APICC.
“This facility is not just a building—it’s a promise that our diverse stories and cultural heritage will have a permanent place in the fabric of San Francisco.”
The APICC/KULARTS space will include a 120-seat theater, a visual arts gallery, and a multidisciplinary area for dance rehearsals, community events, and workshops.
The project is expected to positively impact the SOMA neighborhood by providing a permanent home for legacy arts groups, expanding opportunities for Asian-American performing artists, and enhancing the vibrancy of SOMA Pilipinas while promoting economic revitalization without displacing local residents.
“We are thrilled to co-own a dedicated venue for Pilipinx creative arts after 39 years of renting,” said Alleluia Panis, Artistic Director of KULARTS. “This space will empower future generations of artists to connect with their cultural roots while contributing to the growth of Pilipinx culture.”
The acquisition was made possible by a $5 million grant from the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development and an additional $3 million from the State of California to help create a space that showcases AAPI culture and promotes greater understanding within the community.
With a budget of $30 million for community facility acquisitions and improvements, the city is committed to supporting organizations that celebrate diverse cultural expressions. To date, $29.5 million has been awarded to various organizations through the API Nonprofit Acquisition Fund.
