Pier 24

Beneath the imposing silhouette of the Bay Bridge sits Pier 24 Photography. It’s more than just a building. It’s a sanctuary for the art of photography. Pier 24 houses the extensive Pilara Foundation collection. It boasts the title of the largest photography-only exhibition space globally. Pier 24 Photography opened its doors in 2010. The inaugural exhibition showcased the breadth and depth of the collection. The museum’s collection began with a single photograph. It was a portrait from Diane Arbus’ “Untitled” series. This purchase was inspired by the 2003 “Revelations” retrospective at SFMOMA. The collection now encompasses over 4,000 pieces. It spans the history of photography and its international variations. The core of the collection features photographers from two landmark 20th-century exhibitions. These are “New Documents” (1967) at MoMA and “New Topographics” (1975) at the George Eastman Museum. More recently, Pier 24 has focused on acquiring works by emerging artists. This reflects their commitment to showcasing evolving practices within the medium. Sadly, Pier 24 Photography will be closing its doors in July 2025. This followed a five-year struggle to negotiate a lease renewal with the San Francisco Port Commission. The Commission’s decision to triple the rent contributed to the closure. The Pilara Foundation will transition to a granting foundation. It will support healthcare research, education, and the arts. A Sotheby’s auction in May 2023, titled “Pier 24 Photography from the Pilara Family Foundation,” benefited charitable organizations. Iconic works like Dorothea Lange’s “Migrant Mother” were sold. This final chapter in Pier 24’s story underscores the delicate balance between art and commerce. But the legacy of Pier 24 Photography will undoubtedly endure. It served as a vital hub for photography lovers and artists alike.