Sunset Profile: Local Artist Creates Space for Community Expression
Jeana Loraine is the artist who founded Sealevel — a creative sanctuary and performance space near the ocean in the Outer Sunset. (Photo credit: Lauren Hanussak)
Sealevel is a space that has become a creative sanctuary in the Outer Sunset. On weekdays, it is an unassuming art studio. But in the evenings and on weekends, the space transforms. You might find a crowd gathered for an open mic night or improv session. You could join a peaceful meditation, explore the art of songwriting, or simply enjoy a Saturday morning coffee and pastry.
"Sealevel is about creating a space for people to come together," says its founder, artist Jeana Loraine. "Whether it's for creativity, conversation, or just a sense of belonging, the energy comes from the people who gather here."
An artistic sanctuary
A popular event at Sealevel are the monthly Sunset Solos, produced by playwright and performer Jeremy Greco. Amidst the closure of many small theaters in San Francisco, Greco appreciates Sealevel as an alternative space. His Sunset Solos series challenges the notion that theater is confined to traditional venues.
A performance this spring featured a whimsical exploration of reality and illusion, curiously titled "Cosmic Hiccups and the Crocodile Below.” The show explored influential childhood teachers and included philosophical musings on modern-day social interaction. The performers ranged from established artists with extensive credits to emerging voices.
Another well-loved regular occurrence is the monthly Songwriter Circle, hosted by Grammy-nominated indie-folk musician Frances England.
"A lot of my musician friends left the city because the cost of living was so high, and I was missing having people to talk to about crafting music," says Frances, who is a Sunset resident. "Thanks to Jeana, now we have a place to talk about the creative process and play our original songs in a supportive environment."
The Songwriter Circle attracts about 15 regulars, who range in age from late teens to mid-60s. Some people have never written a song in their life, while others have written songs but never played in public or recorded. But they are all finding a chance to explore their passion.
"There is a craving for art and performance in the Sunset," says Jeremy, the Sunset Solos producer. "Neighbors have been supportive. And there are a lot of talented people in the neighborhood — musicians and artists. They come to Sealevel where the energy of the space is fantastic."
Sealevel founder Jeana Loraine. (Photo credit: Richard Osborn)
The woman behind Sealevel
Jeana's love for design, music, and fostering connections has shaped the space.
Before opening Sealevel, she spent many years living in Zurich, Switzerland, where she worked at El Lokal, a restaurant, bar, and concert venue. As part of its management team, she organized and booked live shows while designing posters, promotional materials, and magazines that highlighted the venue's artists and regulars.
Looking for new experiences, Jeana relocated to San Francisco in 2013. She was drawn to the Outer Sunset's small-town feel and creative energy, finding inspiration all around her.
"I'm fascinated by the ocean and all things nautical," she says. "There's a certain melancholy about them, something nostalgic, that brings up feelings of yearning and longing."
Her illustrations, inspired by these themes, have found a receptive audience and are available as prints, posters, and greeting cards.
Two years ago, Jeana decided to share her love of art and creativity by opening her art studio at 4331 Irving Street as a cozy community gathering space and gallery. She dubbed it Sealevel.
Her initial programs included a magic show and a popup bakery. Since then, Sealevel has become home to a songwriting circle, open mic nights, small group meditation sessions, and writing and craft workshops.
Sealevel is also a venue for local artists and craftspeople to market their wares. Last summer, a group exhibition called Summer in the Sunset highlighted the work of 23 local artists. Last December, a Holiday Bazaar brought together 30 makers and artists for a community marketplace. This May was the first-ever Spring Bazaar.
Regular pop ups feature Sunset vendors, including Braid Bakery, the craft coffees of Brews United, and Bright Moments florist. A full calendar of events is available online.
"Sealevel continues to evolve with input from the community, welcoming fresh ideas for workshops, gatherings, and collaborations," Jeana says. "There is so much talent in the Sunset, so many gifted and curious people. Sealevel is here to celebrate and bring them together."
Supporting the community space
Many events are free for those who RSVP on the website. Tickets for performances are modestly priced. To sustain its vision and keep programming accessible, Sealevel has launched Sealevel Kin, a sponsorship program.
"Jeana found so much talent, so much community here," says Jillian Picazo, a friend and neighbor of Jeana. "I've gotten to know my neighbors in such a different way. Sealevel has been transformative for many of us."
Reported and written by volunteer community journalist Jan Cook. We encourage residents with journalism experience, retired journalists, and student journalists in high school and college to volunteer as writers for Supervisor Engardio’s newsletter. Interested? Apply here. Do you know a story you would like to see featured in the newsletter? Tell us about it here.