On June 12, 2022, San Francisco’s Embarcadero was transformed by the debut of “City of Light,” a new public art installation that has drawn both locals and tourists to the waterfront. The immersive light and sound experience, created by local artists and urban planners, brings an entirely new dimension to the way the city’s iconic skyline is viewed at night. The installation, which runs through the summer, uses large-scale projections, LED lights, and soundscapes to highlight the city’s history, architecture, and diverse cultural heritage.
The installation was developed as part of the city’s effort to revitalize its public spaces and make them more engaging for residents. A collaboration between the San Francisco Arts Commission, various local art organizations, and artists including Marcus Zohn, the piece has been heralded as an ambitious and visually stunning project that aims to connect the public to the urban environment in unexpected ways.
Key figures involved in the project include the San Francisco Arts Commission’s Director of Public Art, Stephanie Sherwood, who described the installation as “a celebration of light, culture, and innovation,” and Marcus Zohn, one of the leading artists behind the project. Zohn, known for his immersive art experiences, worked alongside sound engineer Rachel Kim to create a dynamic, sensory environment that reflects the vibrancy of the city.
“City of Light” features a series of large-scale projections on nearby buildings that display both historical scenes from San Francisco’s past and abstract, colorful visuals that respond to environmental cues like wind and temperature. The projections are synchronized with an evolving soundtrack that blends sounds from the city—traffic, conversations, nature—with electronic compositions to create an evolving audio-visual experience that is unique each night.
While the installation has received praise for its innovative approach to art and public spaces, it has also sparked conversation about the role of technology in modern public art. Critics have questioned whether such large-scale installations, often reliant on technology and funding from private sources, represent the true spirit of public art, which has historically been about accessibility and community engagement.
“Art like this creates a spectacle, and while it is beautiful, I question whether it engages people on a deeper level,” said local artist and community activist Teresa Lopez. “Public art should reflect the lived experiences of the community, and not just be something you can look at or take a picture of.”
Despite the debate, “City of Light” has drawn large crowds each evening and has been praised for reimagining how public art can transform urban landscapes. The city’s residents have embraced the installation, many appreciating the opportunity to experience their city in a new and exciting way. “It’s so inspiring to walk down here and see the entire waterfront lit up like this. It makes the city feel alive,” said Ethan Rivera, a local photographer who has visited the installation several times.
As the summer progresses, “City of Light” is expected to become a must-see destination for those looking to experience the intersection of art, technology, and the unique energy of San Francisco’s public spaces.
