As their 35-year anniversary approaches, 6th on 7th Photography Workshop has been teaching, showcasing, and empowering the residents of the South of Market area. Starting within the community in 1991, as Sixth Street Photography Workshop, a non-profit social arts project of the Tenants and Owners Development Corporation (TODCO).

It was spearheaded by the late Tom Ferentz & carried on by S. Renee Jones. It has become an art space that continues to make the power of photography accessible to all. TODCO’s vision was simple yet radical: to give residents the tools and support to document their lives, build confidence, and find meaning through creative expression. The “art as therapy” approach quickly became central to the workshop’s mission. In 2013, TODCO opened the gallery at 7th and Mission Streets. Named 6th on 7th to honor its roots, the space has since introduced over 500 adults to photography, showcasing their work and helping them share their stories.

S. Renée Jones has been the director for many years, but she started as a member. Guided by the saying, “You do not see the world as it is; you see the world as you are,” The workshops provide accessible, community-center photography experiences for adults who may lack access to creative opportunities due to social, economic, physical, or mental health barriers. Through weekly sessions, one-on-one mentorship, and public exhibitions, participants build confidence, technical skills, and a visual record of the world as they live it.

“Thirty years later, we’re still here, still creating, and still proving that art can change lives,” says Jones.“ Our participants remind us that seeing—and being seen—is at the heart of community.” As it enters this chapter, 6th on 7th Photography Workshop stands as a rare constant in a changing city—a living example of how art spaces rooted in compassion and accessibility can endure, evolve, and continue to inspire.

Tom Ferentz started Sixth Street Photography Workshop in 1991, he wasn’t aware that he was quietly laying the foundation for a social arts institution that would occupy the heart and soul of the South of Market (SOMA) neighborhood for decades to come. “We view self-expression as a right, and want to give people the opportunity and platform to share their stories.” — Tom Ferentz, Founder.

To celebrate this proud occasion 6th on 7th will be having an exhibition “Picture This!” 35 years of community voice through photography. Opening reception, February 21, 2026, Noon to 4 pm.

105 7 St, San Francisco Exhibition dates: February 21 to April 18, 2026. This is a landmark exhibition and reception celebrating three & a half decades of making art, storytelling, and a visual testimony from a selected group of San Francisco’s most overlooked, yet essential voices it has to offer.

This anniversary exhibition honors the people of 6th St.- not only as photographers, but as historians of everyday life.

Together, these works form a narrative arc: from struggle to expression, from survival to celebration, from isolation to community.

Hundreds have passed through their doors and picked up a camera. Their voices speak loudly through the stills of everyday life they capture. The 6 on 7 workshops teach the fundamentals of photography, developing & darkroom experience, digital work, all the way to presenting one’s work. Members also go on field trips and photo walks to support and expand their knowledge.

6th on 7th has remained committed to one principle: Photography is a form of dignity. way to be seen. A way to speak. A way to reclaim narrative.

Community photography exhibition celebrating San Francisco’s neighborhood identities. This exhibition celebrates that legacy through a playful and powerful theme: the names we use to describe San Francisco — and the neighborhood nicknames that shape our lives. Featuring: Guest artist, Rene Becker, images from our regular members, and Special guest, TODCO staff

Date: Saturday, February 21, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: 105 7th Street (at Mission Street), San Francisco, CA

Featuring: Guest artist, Rene Becker, images from our regular members, and Special guest, TODCO staff'

Admission: Free