The Definitive San Francisco Art Gallery Guide

Image via Complex Original

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.