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If you live here at 181 Fremont, there is no doubt you've seen the stunning work of artist Chris Trueman in the elevator lobbies and adorning the wall of the seventh-floor lounge. Trueman describes these "dematerialized paintings" as pretending to live in a mediated state. They are rich, colorful artworks that are captivating and dynamic.

We recently sat down with Chris to learn more about his work and what inspires him:

Q: Great to meet you, Chris. Can you tell us more about yourself?

A: I graduated from the San Francisco Art Institute in 2003, earning BFA degrees in painting and in digital media. My work has been in numerous exhibitions in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Chicago and internationally in Milan, Paris, Berlin, Beijing, Rotterdam and Brisbane, Australia. Recently the Lancaster Museum of Art and History presented a solo exhibition of my paintings entitled "Slipstream" and I was included in the group exhibitions, "To Live and Paint in LA" and "The Subterraneans" at the Torrance Art Museum.

Q: How do you describe your work?

A: I would describe my work as a confluence of abstract styles and painting methods that explore the temporality of representation. What I mean is that historically speaking, art in general - and in my case abstract art - has been a marker of time and place; an encapsulation of the ideas that are circulating and social concerns, both philosophically and politically. In Post-War abstract expressionism there was a push toward a non-verbal communication - a more instinctual communication that happened between viewer and object. This relationship calls to be present in the moment. I've thought a lot about those ideas in relation to my work and the world we now live in with incredible technologies as we manage multiple identities simultaneously. So being "present" takes on new meaning and understanding where our online presence is at times, which is as real as our physical reality. With these ideas in mind, I created paintings that combine the contemporary with the historical and they act physically as though they are mediated, despite being handmade and physically occupy the same space with the viewer.

Q: Describe the pieces on display here at 181 Fremont

A: For the large diptychs on aluminum that are displayed on the elevator lobbies, I chose to work on the aluminum surface because it is reflective and will change with the light. When aluminum is reflecting, the perceived color can appear brighter than the white paint and when it is not reflecting it reads as more of a grey. This means that any tone between these values will change spatial relation depending on light activation, with the brighter coming forward and the darker receding. So, the paintings subtly react to the environment, the time of day and ambient light with the presence of people who alter the light.

For the painting on the seventh floor, I painted with acrylic and acrylic spray paint on canvas and took a different approach to similar ideas about how we represent time and place in culture. There are references to historical abstraction, graffiti, technology, nature and digital space constructed out of stacking layers. I was thinking about urban environments and natural environments and the negotiation between the various people that live in a place.

Q: What inspires you?

A: I am a consumer of all sorts of information and experiences. I've traveled fairly extensively and am curious about the way that people live and the way that we create images and objects that reflect our culture. With social media, there is tremendous access to information: people, places, art, cuisine - everything appears to be at our fingertips. However, at the same time the images and pictures provide limited context and many images have been manipulated. So, while the platform provides a broad reach, it may not truly reflect the reality of an in-person experience. I love how we can use social media to connect and start a conversation, but I don't think it is the whole picture and I love to bring friendships and conversations into the real world.

Q: Your work has already been a hit with residents. How do you hope they are inspired by these pieces?

A: The elevator lobbies where the two diptychs are installed are spaces where people will round the corner from the main lobby and see the rich colorful artworks from a distance. As they approach and wait for the elevator to arrive, they can explore the surface more closely. It is a space of transition, where people are coming and going but also one that many people will frequent and I wanted them to discover nuances and details in the pieces each time they are passing through these spaces. The paintings were deliberately conceived for the spaces which they inhabit.

The seventh-floor lounge painting was conceptualized in a different way. It is another transitional space that connects with Salesforce Park and also a commercial entrance, so I sought to create a painting that makes reference to both the indoor and outdoor environments. There are references to nature, the urban environment, graffiti and visual stimulus as we walk the streets, combined with references to digital images and representations of the world around us. Industrial and natural visual textures mingle with San Francisco art historical references such as Clyfford Still and Richard Diebenkorn (two artists whose work I personally love).

Q: What do you enjoy about living and working in San Francisco as an artist?

When I was 17-years-old, I was living in Northern California and I attended a Young Artist Program at the San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI). It was life changing for me and I decided shortly thereafter that I would return to SFAI for undergraduate studies. It wasn't a straight path, but a few years later I found myself back at SFAI where I earned by BFA. After my first semester I was back in my hometown visiting family for the holidays when a friend called and told me to turn on the news. I did and what I saw was my apartment building in San Francisco on fire. When I returned to school a few weeks later, I had nowhere to live, and being new to the city with minimal funds as a college student, I didn't have many friends to rely on. So, over the next several months I ended up painting all day and sleeping at school. Students had 24-hour access to the art studios, so I was allowed to be there, but we weren't supposed to sleep there. It took around three months before I had found a new apartment, but those long months were filled with making art and exploring the city. It was an intense time for me, but so many areas and places in San Francisco are filled with memories of that time, and I feel the hardship gave me verve and tenacity which reflects in my paintings.

Q: Where can people see more of your work?

A: I recently had a solo exhibition at Themes and Projects in the Minnesota Street projects building in San Francisco and they will maintain some inventory of work. I also have a solo exhibition coming up in March in Los Angeles at Edward Cella Gallery that I am very excited about. Instagram is always a good place to connect with me and see my most recent work and projects (follow: @truemanchris).

It's the most wonderful time of the year in San Francisco and there is no shortage of holiday happenings to get you into the festive spirit.

One of the greatest luxuries of living at 181 Fremont is that you're centrally located to the best that the city has to offer. From ice skating at Embarcadero Center to taking in one of the most impressive fireworks shows in the country, these are some of our favorite holiday traditions around the Bay Area:

The Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center

Open now through Jan. 6, 2019

Where else can you ice skate in the heart of the city while enjoying stunning views of historic landmarks like the Bay Bridge and Ferry Building? The Holiday Ice Rink at Embarcadero Center is San Francisco's largest outdoor ice rink and has been a time-honored tradition in the city for 29 years. With hour-and-a-half skate sessions and late-night adult skating on Friday and Saturdays, this is a must during the holiday season. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://embarcaderocenter.com/experience/holiday-ice-rink/

The Nutcracker at San Francisco Ballet

Daily Showings through Dec. 29

Originally launched in San Francisco in 1944, the Nutcraker was an instant sensation that became a holiday tradition across America. Celebrate where it all began and join the San Francisco Ballet for showings nearly every day through December 29. For those looking to indulge in a little more, VIP Box Experiences are also available. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.sfballet.org/season/nutcracker/nutcracker.

2018 Lighted Boat Parade

Friday, Dec. 14 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Spreading Christmas cheer since 1994, the annual Lighted Boat Parade at Fisherman's Wharf will light up the San Francisco Bay as more than 60 boats parade along the waterfront. Holiday revelers can enjoy the views from Aquatic Park, PIER 39, the Marina Green Room and Crissy Field while a number of restaurants along the Wharf will be offering traditional holiday menus throughout the event. For more information, visit http://www.visitfishermanswharf.com/events/lighted-boat-parade-je2nh.

Winter Walk SF at Union Square

Open now through Dec. 31, 2018

Attracting more than 750,000 visitors each year, Union Square's Winter Walk SF, a 17,000 square foot holiday pop-up plaza, is a sight to see this season. Transforming Stockton Street between Geary and Ellis streets, Winter Walk features two open-air beer and wine gardens, food trucks, live performances, carolers, holiday-themed photo opportunity and other wintery surprises. For more information on upcoming events and performances, visit https://www.winterwalksf.com/events/.

New Year's Eve Fireworks at Embarcadero

Monday, Dec. 31 starting at 11:30 a.m.

Every New Year's Eve, thousands of people come together along the Embarcadero to watch as the dark skies over the San Francisco Bay and Bay Bridge light up with fireworks at midnight. You can watch the 15-minute display from some of our favorite restaurants along the Embarcadero like Waterfront Restaurant or Coqueta.

Getting to Know 181 Fremont's Concierge, David Mertens

For residents of 181 Fremont, walking through the front door is like crossing a threshold into another world. Not only are they surrounded by stunning architecture and meticulous design, residents have the undivided attention of the service staff, including Head Concierge David Mertens. We sat down with David to learn more about him and his role in catering to any wish and whim of our homeowners.

Welcome to the 181 Fremont team! Tell us a little about yourself:

I am a native San Franciscan, born and raised. I've traveled all over the world and I'm passionate about family, friends, health, food and wine.

What services do you offer 181 Fremont residents?

Our 181 Fremont concierge program offers five-star, hotel-style concierge services such as assistance with arranging dining reservations, tickets to entertainment and cultural venues, private shopping experiences, access to trusted service providers around the city and much more.If you're throwing an intimate dinner party in your penthouse and need a private chef and florist, call me. If you're planning a surprise anniversary soiree and need logistics covered, I'm here to assist. I also maintain the amenities level to help make it an extension of residents' homes.

What's something that a resident might not know you can help them with?

Everyday errands. Why do it yourself and run all over the city when your concierge will do it for you? I'm here to make residents' lives easier, so they can pass their daily tasks to me like, pick up your Jimmy Choo purchase at the Union Square store or handle a drop off and pick up for your luggage repair.

With the holidays upon us, what are some ideas of how residents can use your services to get a helping hand?

The most popular resident request around the holidays is how to spend New Year's Eve. Tell me what type of experience you're looking for and I'll create a custom list of options for you as well as handle the booking. Just don't delay – tickets to the best parties in town sell fast and dinner reservations book up quickly.

What do you recommend residents do around town this season, especially if they have guests in town visiting?

There are so many great options. A few of my favorites include SFMOMA, which has world-class art collections and an amazing restaurant. The de Young Museum is architecturally stunning and has the bonus of being just across the way from the California Academy of Sciences. Not to be missed is brunch at Cavalo Point in the Sausalito Hills, which is owned by the team behind Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur. And, a drive down the coast highway to The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay for lunch and a walk along the beach is a must.

What are your top 3 favorite neighborhood spots near 181 Fremont?

Pacific Heights has Fillmore Street that is lined with great shops and restaurants. Don't miss shopping at Ministry for fashion specifically designed for the traveler and dining at famed restaurant SPQR for authentic Italian cuisine.

Sacramento Heights has Sacramento Street and two of my favorite businesses. One is a kitchen accessories store called March that has the most stylish selection in town, plus it's a great place to buy gifts. Nearby Spruce has the most glamorous dining room in the city, so don't miss having dinner there.

The Marina has Union Street packed full of activities, shops and restaurants. It's a young and hip area where everyone is exercising at world-class gyms like Equinox, eating at delicious Mexican restaurants like Flores and shopping at the hippest brands like Lululemon. Union Street is truly fun for the whole family.

Any secret gems that you recommend so people are in-the-know?

The Jackson Square neighborhood, just a short walk from 181 Fremont, is very cutting edge and chic, yet steeped in history. It's my absolute favorite place to be in San Francisco. Do some shopping at Theory, Aesop and Shinola and dine Cotogna for fantastic Italian food, Kusakabe for sushi and 15 Romolo for gourmet comfort food.

Located over 700 feet above San Francisco, the Residence 68B half-floor penthouse at 181 Fremont enjoys unprecedented 180-degree, floor-to-ceiling views across the city and beyond the bay. With 3,256 square feet of glorious space, the penthouse lends itself to gatherings formal or informal, as well as private living on a truly grand scale.

The interior design, by Kendall Wilkinson of Kendall Wilkinson Design (KWD), creates intimate contemporary spaces with timeless elements and a balance of exquisite finishes. This classic home is fully-furnished and move-in ready, with custom furniture and finishes throughout, and a curated finesse to every detail.

"With its incredibly expansive views of San Francisco, the Bay Bridge, Sutro Tower, Mount Diablo, and beyond, the penthouse at 181 Fremont encapsulates the magic of the City.We sought to harness this romanticism while balancing the building's strong architecture by creating a highly customized residence rich with texture and soft, curvaceous furniture," said Wilkinson."The penthouse is an ultra-luxurious and expansive home with stylish touches that invites buyers to entertain and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings for years to come."

Thoughtfully and meticulously designed, the home features a contemporary look with soft lines to complement the striking angles of the building's architecture. The residence infuses classic Old-World glamour with vibrant pops of color and displays a sample collection of artworks on loan from Susanne Vielmetter Los Angeles Projects, all curated by 181 Fremont's art consultant, Holly Baxter. Upon entering, residents and their guests are welcomed into a formal lobby adorned in a dramatic, textured turquoise wallcovering by Phillip Jefferies – showcasing KWD's signature glamorous style.Furnishings in the lobby include a custom geometric brass console and a pair of fretwork brass screens to define the space, providing a graceful entry into the home's living quarters.

Decorated with soft and curvaceous furniture, cream textured wallcoverings, custom Porta Romana sconces, and a mixed-media painting by Bay Area artist, Hugo McCloud, the living room offers spectacular views in every direction. Distinctive furniture pieces including armchairs by Parisian designer, Jean-Louis Deniot, offer a pleasing juxtaposition to the home's angular architecture, creating an inviting environment for residents and guests alike. Adjacent to the living room, the den serves as a multi-faceted space that can function as a private retreat, office, media room, or an additional room for entertaining guests. The den boasts a private bar, television and open shelving of antique brass with integrated lighting for a touch of KWD glamour. An impressive custom-made sliding glass door divides the two spaces – allowing for complete privacy while maintaining unparalleled views and a sense of openness, even while closed.

The residence's sophisticated dining room is outfitted with an expandable chandelier by Peter Bristol, a distinguished Apple product designer, and turquoise Brueton dining chairs reproduced from their 1980s designs. Moving through the penthouse's open layout into the kitchen, the eye is drawn to bright hues in Dancer – an acrylic abstract canvas displaying colorful multi-dimensional geometric shapes by artist, Patrick Wilson.KWD designed the space to be playful, adding orange leather counter stools to the kitchen island and an acrylic shelving piece adorned with colorful, sculptural prisms to add elements of fun without taking away from the dramatic views of the ocean and Bay Bridge.

Located on the southwestern wing, the penthouse's master bedroom is fitted with elegant white- and gold-accented décor contrasted by hints of rich aubergine, playing into the residence's theme of negatives and positives. Handmade wallcoverings by Los Angeles-based designer, Robert Crowder, and a pink-hued acrylic canvas by Yunhee Min, adorn the walls. Along with a sleigh bed designed by Jean-Louis Deniot, the bedroom boasts a comfortable seating area for a secondary place to watch television or to simply enjoy the spectacular views with one's morning coffee or nightcap before bed.

Celebrated as one of the nation's most highly regarded residential designers in the West, Wilkinson, a California native, discovered her passion for design throughout Europe, specifically Paris, where she took note of the city's architecture, antiques and decorative arts. Mastering the art of combining authenticity with contemporary design, Kendall is one of the most sought-after designers for leaders in tech, finance, retail, and hospitality. Wilkinson seeks to breathe life into each space, blending the old and the new, a concept seen throughout 181 Fremont's penthouse with curated and custom furnishings representing a spectrum of time periods.

KWD's impeccable penthouse design complements the existing finishes, all catering to a discriminating buyer from museum-style walls, kitchens with Italian-crafted Valcucine glass cabinets and Brazilian Macaubas quartzite countertops to Calacatta Carrara marble framing the entryways, doors encased in Paldao wood from New Guinea, and custom brass door handles by Parisian artist, Daniel Povda. The elegant bathrooms are adorned with full-slab Arabescato Corchia marble, hand-selected by Diaz-Azcuy in Italy and placed in symmetric patterns to elicit beautiful veining designs. Bathrooms include large soaking tubs, showers and dual-vanities.

181 Fremont's exceptional design extends beyond the penthouse. Master designer Orlando Diaz-Azcuy and his firm, ODADA, designed the building's resplendent interiors including the residential lobby and 7,000-square-foot Sky Lounge amenities floor, which features a wraparound terrace.181 Fremont's esteemed art consultant, Holly Baxter, traveled the world to acquire noteworthy pieces for residents' permanent enjoyment in the shared areas, including Eva Rothschild's striking 9-foot sculpture, Bright Eyes, located beneath the lobby's gold dome, and Shahzia Sikander's The Six Singing Spheres #6, which resonates with the shape and form of the room and the poetic nature of its design by ODADA.

"181 Fremont's new penthouse designed by Kendall Wilkinson Design gives distinguished buyers a rare opportunity to purchase a custom curated home that's move-in ready without the hassle of hiring a contractor and designer and then awaiting permits and bespoke furnishings to arrive," said Matt Lituchy, Chief Investment Officer at Jay Paul Company."With 181 Fremont, we sought to create a world-class building, paying impeccable attention to every detail, and this penthouse is no exception.The owner will benefit from a fully curated luxury living experience inclusive of a renowned designer as well as timeliness interiors with furnishings and finishes created specifically for this exceptional residence – all complemented by commanding views of San Francisco and beyond."

Offered at $15.5 million, inclusive of exquisite furnishings and finishes, the half-floor penthouse by Kendall Wilkinson Design at 181 Fremont is available for immediate move-in.The penthouse is one of only 55 custom residences at 181 Fremont.For a private appointment and more information on 181 Fremont, contact Dilan Urun at 415-282-0888 or dilan@181fremont.com.

Design. Location. Stature. An ability to define a city. 181 Fremont is a landmark for the future and as such it was designed to serve as an enduring symbol of achievement and inspiration for all who see it. One of the many examples of this is the building's pre-certification as San Francisco's first LEED Platinum luxury condominium tower.

In an effort to minimize the ecological footprint of 181 Fremont, the Jay Paul Company turned to the people who wrote the book on sustainability. Urban Fabrick is a San Francisco-based firm that actually helped develop the San Francisco Green Building Code a decade ago.

Today, they bring a suite of best practices and building materials together for a comprehensive approach to sustainable living. While the existing LEED Platinum standards are ambitious to meet, the Jay Paul Company and Urban Fabrick took 181 Fremont even further. Every finish and material was evaluated to meet—and often exceed—CALGreen requirements.

181 Fremont has also been engineered to be the most resilient and seismically-sound tall building on the West Coast, with an ingenious high-strength steel exoskeleton structural system. The building's design is innovative in ways both obvious and invisible. Passersby, and even its residents, probably won't notice the painstaking efforts that went into this architectural feat.

Interesting Facts:

• The team traveled to Australia in order to learn about the latest water preservation and recycling techniques. Chief among the innovations being introduced here is a membrane bioreactor in the building, which will actively save 1.3 million gallons of water per year.
• 181 Fremont's water recycling system captures both graywater and rainwater for reuse, and its glass curtain wall system maximizes natural light, giving eco-conscious residents the option to dial back their use of electricity.
• The building's construction caissons, which were designed by the engineering firm Arup, are the deepest ever drilled in San Francisco, extending over 260 feet into the bedrock. This means that the state-of-the-art structure has unparalleled stability, and Arup has awarded it a REDi™ Gold rating for seismic-resistant construction.

181 Fremont is an engineering marvel that's here to stay.