Image via Complex Original
With a rich history both inside and outside of galleries, the art scene in San Francisco doesn’t conform to a single category. There's illustration, street art, photography, performance, and other mediums in the city’s many institutions. Even while artists struggle to find studio spaces and galleries battle against rising rents, the art scene in San Francisco continues to display conceptually complex and visually intricate art. You can find vastly different art experiences and aesthetics from gallery to gallery. These spaces also play host to various artists who see the allure of a city that’s bathed in sunlight during the day and enveloped by fog at night. For the art lover itching for a visual adventure, here’s a quick guide to some of San Francisco’s most memorable galleries.
1AM SF
Website: 1amsf.com
With each new show, 1AM SF showcases street art talent from around the world. The best part is that exhibiting artists often take over the wall outside the gallery, too. It’s a rare opportunity to see one wall transformed regularly under the hands of seriously skilled artists. The gallery also offers graffiti workshops for budding street artists (it also features a great selection of spray paint cans).
111 Minna Gallery
Website: 111minnagallery.com
The maze-like interior of 111 Minna lends itself well to the art parties that happen there often (some with live body painting). Home of the Pancakes and Booze art show, the gallery boasts two bars and plenty of wall space for emerging artists. Visit during non-party hours to escape the crowd and get a closer view of the changing artwork.
FFDG
Website: ffdg.net
The official San Francisco outpost of Fecal Face (an irreverently-named art website), FFDG hosts work from well-known contemporary artists like Jeremy Fish, Curiot, and KeFe. It’s a well-curated space with an air of punk sensibility. During opening nights, the space frequently gets packed with an overflow of art enthusiasts.
Spoke Art
Website: spoke-art.com
Pop culture trivia heads will find their heaven at Spoke Art—a gallery space that frequently hosts pop culture-themed shows. Past exhibitions include a David Lynch tribute show and a Lil Bub-themed show. No matter the topic, expect seriously creative pieces in a range of mediums.
Hashimoto Contemporary
Website: hashimotocontemporary.com
Only a few steps away from Spoke Art, Hashimoto Contemporary also exhibits contemporary art that’s eye-catching and memorable. The space houses a range of artists and changes creatively with each exhibition—for Crystal Wagner’s solo show, the gallery’s walls were the backdrop for towering paper installations. Soon after, GATS and Jessica Hess’ duo show turned the space into a reflection of the urban landscape.
White Walls & Shooting Gallery
Website: whitewallssf.com / shootinggallerysf.com
Jointly housed in one space, White Walls and Shooting Gallery have exhibited the work of street artists like Jet Martinez, Herakut, and APEX, along with artists like Olek and Casey Gray. Keep an eye out for the Meggs mural on the gallery’s shutter door.
Ever Gold Gallery
Website: evergoldgallery.com
Tucked away in the Tenderloin, Ever Gold Gallery makes it a mission to exhibit work that sparks conversation and takes a risk. It’s not uncommon to see unconventional scenes like go-go dancers in the gallery’s windows. Past exhibitions include work from Sandy Kim, Mauricio Ancalmo, Guy Overfelt, and more.
Galería de la Raza
Website: galeriadelaraza.org
Situated in the Mission District, Galería de la Raza highlights Chicano and Latino artists. The space’s shows focus on everything from icons like Frida Kahlo to relevant issues like the LGBTQIA movement. Operating since 1970, the gallery also gives back to the community through public programs.
49 Geary Art Galleries
49 Geary Art Galleries
On the first Thursday of every month, a consortium called the 49 Geary Art Galleries opens its door to fine art lovers. The downtown destination makes it easy to see the work of various artists in the space of four stories. Exhibiting venues include the Robert Koch Gallery, Stephen Wirtz Gallery, and Haines Gallery.
SFMOMA Artists Gallery
Website: sfmoma.org
For an especially local experience, check out the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art’s Artists Gallery at Fort Mason. The space features solo shows but also themed exhibitions—a recent show called “Moonlighting: Designers/Illustrators/Photographers and Their Art” exhibited pieces by local working professionals who also make art on the side. Avid art collectors should visit the gallery’s annual warehouse sale, a special event featuring the work of Bay Area artists at special prices.
