Local non-profit North Beach Citizens partners with the Cannery Gallery for Reflections, 2012.
In April the Cannery Gallery will be hosting an exhibition that showcases the artistic talents of the San Francisco North Beach neighborhood. North Beach Citizens, an organization that helps the homeless and low-income residents of North Beach, will hold their third annual art exhibition, Reflections 2012.
The show is open to anyone who would like to submit a piece; however, the artist must use a mirror and base their work on the theme of self-reflection, self-realization or transformation. For further information on submitting, please click Here. 
This week we had the chance to talk with Kristie Fairchild, Alex Neidenberg and Ethel Jimenez from North Beach Citizens, to learn more about how the program works, and to discuss the upcoming show. Ms. Fairchild, the Executive Director, was hired nine years ago by the Board of Directors for NBC. Her dedication to NBC has made a tremendous impact in the community since then.
NBC helps homeless and low-income residents obtain housing, get connected to various resources and take necessary steps toward self-sufficiency. Once a person is accepted into the program, NBC works with each individual to create an action plan based on their specific situation. Kristie explained how each person she meets has a unique story and is in need of different assistance. Most importantly, they are in need of an advocate and someone who can guide them to the right resources.
One of the ways that NBC connects with their neighborhood is through their fundraising efforts. Having an art exhibition not only showcases the creative skills of each artist, but is a way for the community to come together. Whether someone is submitting a piece or making a purchase, anyone can contribute to the success of the show. Kristie explained how the open space and unique dimensions of the Cannery Gallery make it an ideal place to show Reflections 2012.
One aspect of Reflections 2012 will be the striking portraits of the people that North Beach Citizens has assisted. In this way, viewers will literally see who this exhibition will benefit. In addition, Reflections 2012 will feature artists such as Jack Hirschman, a poet, painter and social activist, and Lawrence Ferlinghetti, a poet, artist and the founder of City Lights Bookstore.
Overall, Reflections 2012 is not just about showing a collection of art–it is about showing how a community can come together as one to put on a fantastic exhibition.
-Heather Runyan