San Francisco’s vibrant arts scene is currently navigating a challenging period, with several museums and cultural institutions facing significant setbacks.

Financial Struggles in the Arts Community

The Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts is experiencing a loss of crucial children’s programming, exhibits, and events, despite assurances of action from City Hall. This situation highlights a broader struggle for funding and support within the city’s cultural landscape.

Exhibitions at the Letterform Archive

The Letterform Archive is currently showcasing ‘Black Memory Scholar: The Language of Storytellers,’ an exhibition exploring the work of staff member Jada Simone Haynes and her engagement with ancestry, identity, and memory. The archive is open with varying hours throughout the week, offering free admission on Thursdays.

Avant-Garde Design on Display

Additionally, the archive features a reprint of Piet Zwart’s avant-garde catalog and his influential essay on new typography, emphasizing the functional use of design elements.

SFMOMA's Diverse Collection

SFMOMA is also hosting several notable exhibits. ‘Cupid’s Span,’ a bronze sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, has been extended through February 7, 2027, and remains a prominent feature on the museum’s terrace.

Fisher Collection Re-evaluation

The museum is presenting a comprehensive collection of works from the Doris and Donald Fisher Collection, including pieces by artists such as Anselm Kiefer, Philip Guston, and Roy Lichtenstein. A re-evaluation of this collection, involving 16 finalists, is currently underway.

Contemporary and Historical Exhibits

Furthermore, the museum is exhibiting Samia Halaby’s work, spanning three decades, and a show dedicated to KAWS, exploring themes of family and marketing through his graffiti-inspired art. Another significant exhibition, ‘Constructing History,’ delves into the layers of history embedded within images, featuring the work of Carrie Mae Weems alongside contemporary Black artists like Nona Faustine, Carla Williams, and Dawoud Bey.

Exploring Video and Craft

The ‘Video Craft’ exhibit, open until August 16, explores the connections between video, film, and traditional craft media. These diverse offerings demonstrate the continued commitment of San Francisco’s museums to providing enriching cultural experiences, even amidst financial difficulties.