On Sunday, while walking on Divis to pick up some dinner, I noticed something new on the storefront of the old Emblem Market. A public discussion board! I've always been a fan of the public art that randomly pops up in the 'hood, so I was intrigued. There wasn't much information, but the two chalkboards asked passersby to complete the sentences: "I want for my community..." and "We can change the world with ...". I stopped to take a few photos of the building, hoping to find out more information on the Internets. 

After a little Googling, I discovered that the discussion board is part of the Divisadero Street Community Art Unveiling, a project started by neighborhood organization the Wigg Party, future Divis merchant Bi-Rite (who currently own the Emblem space), and local artist Erik Anderson. The three parties wanted to take a "dormant storefront and do something awesome with it." 

On Friday, they unveiled the discussion board, created by Erik Anderson, and capped off the night with a party. I missed the celebration, but I think it's cool that people can still participate after the event by writing their thoughts on the chalkboards. This neighborhood has evolved so much in the last few years, and I'm sure everyone who lives here has thoughts about the transformation, good and bad. I'm personally worried that the changes will leave out members of the old neighborhood, but I'm hopeful when I see the community come together on projects like these. However you feel about the change, I think it's a positive step when people are asked to voice their opinions in the process.  

So neighbors of Divisadero, don't be shy, what do you think the community needs? 

All images: Sarah Han