Sijia Chen, the selected artist for the 40th Streetscape Public Art Project in Emeryville, brings her distinctive approach to artistic narratives and placemaking to this vibrant urban corridor. Inspired by Emeryville’s dynamic transformation, its industrial heritage, and its evolving role as a hub of creativity and innovation, Sijia seeks to capture the spirit of movement, connection, and community that defines the city.
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The theme of the project, "Bringing Nature into the Urban Streetscape," reflects a vision of integrating organic elements into the built environment, infusing Emeryville’s hardscapes with art that evokes the rhythms and beauty of nature. Through sculptural forms, textures, and interactive elements, 40th Street will be the transformed into an artistic thoroughfare. The works will bridge Emeryville’s industrial past with its commitment to sustainability and green urban spaces.
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Her vision for the project is to create an immersive experience that reflects the rhythm of daily life along 40th Street—where pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders converge. The artwork will echo the flow of movement while offering spaces for engagement, contemplation, and connection to nature. Some elements will provide seating, shade, or interaction, encouraging people to engage the artwork in a functional and meaningful way.
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A central aspect of Sijia’s artistic practice is community involvement. She is inviting Emeryville residents, workers, and visitors to contribute their stories, memories, and aspirations, ensuring the artwork reflects the diverse voices that shape the city. Through workshops and collaborative sessions, she will integrate local perspectives into the design, incorporating elements such as text, imagery, and patterns drawn from community input.
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Ultimately, this project seeks to transform 40th Street into not just a passageway, but a shared space of artistic expression and civic pride—where public art serves as both a landmark and a living dialogue with the people who experience it every day. By weaving nature into the fabric of the urban landscape, the artwork will foster a deeper connection between the city and the natural world, making 40th Street a more inviting, inspiring, and enriching space for all.
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For more information, please visit https://www.ci.emeryville.ca.us/1321/Whats-Coming​
