In a run-down industrial complex in Bayview, San Francisco, a hidden gem lies in wait. Behind a nondescript facade, lies a warehouse filled with an incredible array of donated items. Plastic pink flamingos, rainbow-colored paint, and a treasure trove of miscellaneous family photos and paper maps – this is the world of SCRAP, a nonprofit that has been a mainstay of the San Francisco arts scene for over four decades. SCRAP: A Scrounger’s Paradise
SCRAP, officially known as the Scroungers’ Center for Reusable Art Parts, has been in operation since 1976, founded by Anne Marie Theilen and artist Ruth Asawa. Theilen’s vision was to create a space where artists could find materials to create their work, rather than throwing them away. Since then, SCRAP has evolved into a haven for artists, educators, and the general public alike, offering everything from art supplies to second-hand materials for creative reuse. •Some of the items you can find at SCRAP:
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- Art supplies: paper, pencils, paint, and more
- Donated materials: fabric, buttons, beads, and other miscellaneous items
- Vintage items: clothing, accessories, and household goods
- Artwork: paintings, prints, and photographs
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SCRAP’s Mission
SCRAP’s mission is to provide a platform for artists to find materials and inspiration, while also promoting creativity and sustainability.
The nonprofit has had a significant impact on the San Francisco community, diverting over 250 tons of waste from landfills and providing access to art supplies for thousands of people.
| Years | Donated Materials | Amount of Waste Diverted |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 10,000 | 100 |
| 2009 | 20,000 | 200 |
| 2019 | 36,000 | 250 |
“We want to make art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or financial means,” says Terry Kochanski, SCRAP’s executive director.
SCRAP’s current lease is set to expire in June, and the nonprofit is facing a significant challenge in finding a new home. The San Francisco Unified School District, which owns the warehouse, plans to rebuild the building to house a new central kitchen.
SCRAP’s Search for a New Home
SCRAP is currently searching for a new location that meets its needs, with a minimum of 3,000 square feet of space. The nonprofit is also seeking funding to support its operations and expansion plans.
“A thousand dollars is hardly anything in San Francisco,” says Steve Lambright, a board member, “it’s going to be hard to let that go.”
SCRAP’s legacy is a testament to the power of creativity and sustainability.
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