The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is a beacon of creativity, innovation, and artistic expression in the heart of San Francisco. With its striking architecture, world-class collections, and thought-provoking exhibitions, SFMOMA has become a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts from around the globe. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through the museum's history, highlights, and hidden gems, providing insights and tips to make your visit truly unforgettable.
The History of SFMOMA
Founding and Early Years
SFMOMA was founded in 1935 by a group of art enthusiasts, including Grace L. McCann Morley, who served as the museum's first director. The museum's initial collection was modest, consisting primarily of works by local artists and a few key pieces by modern masters like Henri Matisse and Diego Rivera.
In its early years, SFMOMA occupied a small space in the War Memorial Veterans Building, sharing the facility with other cultural institutions. Despite its limited resources, the museum quickly gained a reputation for its innovative exhibitions and educational programs, which sought to introduce modern art to a wider audience.
Expansion and Growth
As the museum's collection and audience grew, so did the need for a larger, dedicated space. In 1995, SFMOMA moved to its current location on Third Street, in a building designed by Swiss architect Mario Botta. The new facility provided ample space for exhibitions, educational programs, and public events, allowing the museum to expand its reach and impact.
In 2016, SFMOMA completed a major expansion project, designed by the architecture firm Snøhetta. The expansion nearly tripled the museum's gallery space, adding 235,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor galleries, public spaces, and performance venues. The new building seamlessly integrates with the original Mario Botta structure, creating a dynamic and inviting environment for visitors to explore and engage with modern and contemporary art.
The Architecture of SFMOMA
Mario Botta's Postmodern Design
The original SFMOMA building, designed by Mario Botta, is a striking example of postmodern architecture. The building's distinctive brick facade, punctuated by a central oculus and a soaring atrium, has become an iconic feature of the San Francisco skyline.
Botta's design emphasizes geometry and symmetry, with a series of stepped terraces and cylindrical volumes that create a sense of drama and movement. The building's interior is equally impressive, with a skylit atrium that floods the space with natural light and provides views of the surrounding city.
Snøhetta's Seamless Expansion
The 2016 expansion, designed by Snøhetta, takes a more subtle and integrated approach to architecture. The new building's undulating white facade, composed of fiberglass-reinforced polymer panels, echoes the fog-shrouded hills of San Francisco, while its transparent base invites passersby to glimpse the activity within.
Inside, the expansion features a series of interconnected galleries, terraces, and public spaces that flow seamlessly from one to another. The new building also includes a large, free public gallery on the ground floor, a sculpture terrace with panoramic city views, and a living wall that brings a touch of nature into the museum.
SFMOMA's Collections and Exhibitions
Painting and Sculpture
SFMOMA's painting and sculpture collection is one of the most comprehensive in the United States, spanning the late 19th century to the present day. The collection includes masterpieces by artists such as Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, and Gerhard Richter, as well as works by emerging and underrepresented artists.
Highlights of the collection include:
- Jackson Pollock's "Guardians of the Secret" (1943)
- Andy Warhol's "Triple Elvis" (1963)
- Frida Kahlo's "Diego Rivera" (1931)
- Gerhard Richter's "Two Candles" (1982)
Photography
SFMOMA is home to one of the world's most extensive collections of photography, with over 17,000 works spanning the history of the medium. The collection includes iconic images by masters like Ansel Adams, Diane Arbus, and Henri Cartier-Bresson, as well as contemporary works by artists pushing the boundaries of the medium.
Notable works in the photography collection include:
- Ansel Adams' "Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico" (1941)
- Diane Arbus' "Identical Twins, Roselle, New Jersey" (1967)
- Henri Cartier-Bresson's "Behind the Gare Saint-Lazare" (1932)
- Cindy Sherman's "Untitled Film Stills" series (1977-1980)
Media Arts
SFMOMA's media arts collection encompasses a wide range of time-based and digital artworks, including video, film, sound art, and software-based works. The collection features pioneering works by artists such as Nam June Paik, Bill Viola, and Lynn Hershman Leeson, as well as cutting-edge pieces by contemporary practitioners.
Highlights of the media arts collection include:
- Nam June Paik's "TV Buddha" (1974)
- Bill Viola's "The Crossing" (1996)
- Lynn Hershman Leeson's "Agent Ruby" (1999-2002)
- Rafael Lozano-Hemmer's "Pulse Room" (2006)
Architecture and Design
The museum's architecture and design collection showcases the creativity and innovation of designers and architects from around the world. The collection includes furniture, textiles, posters, and other objects that demonstrate the enduring impact of design on everyday life.
Notable pieces in the architecture and design collection include:
- Charles and Ray Eames' "DCW" (Dining Chair Wood) (1945)
- Isamu Noguchi's "Akari" light sculptures (1951)
- Paul László's "Cord" chair (1950)
- Michael Graves' "Tea and Coffee Piazza" service (1983)
Special Exhibitions
In addition to its permanent collections, SFMOMA regularly hosts special exhibitions that showcase the work of individual artists, explore specific themes or periods, or highlight new developments in contemporary art. These exhibitions often feature loans from other institutions, as well as works from the museum's holdings.
Recent notable exhibitions include:
- "Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again" (2019)
- "Nam June Paik" (2021)
- "Diego Rivera's America" (2022)
- "Postcommodity: The Point of Final Collapse" (2022)
Educational Programs and Public Engagement
Tours and Gallery Talks
SFMOMA offers a variety of tours and gallery talks to help visitors engage with the art on display. These programs range from free public tours led by trained docents to specialized tours focusing on specific themes, artists, or exhibitions.
The museum also offers audio guides and mobile app tours that allow visitors to explore the collections at their own pace. These self-guided options provide in-depth information about the artworks, as well as insights into the artists' lives and creative processes.
Classes and Workshops
For those looking to deepen their understanding of modern and contemporary art, SFMOMA offers a range of classes and workshops for adults, teens, and children. These programs provide hands-on opportunities to learn about art-making techniques, explore art history and theory, and engage in creative expression.
Adult classes and workshops cover topics such as drawing, painting, photography, and art appreciation, while youth programs focus on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and visual literacy skills.
Public Programs and Performances
SFMOMA's commitment to public engagement extends beyond the gallery walls, with a diverse array of public programs and performances that connect art to broader social, cultural, and political issues. These programs include lectures, panel discussions, film screenings, and live performances that feature artists, scholars, and thought leaders from various fields.
The museum also hosts regular "Free Days," during which admission is waived, and special events like "Night at the Museum," which offer extended hours and unique programming for visitors of all ages.
Visitor Information and Amenities
Hours and Admission
SFMOMA is open Friday through Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The museum is closed on Wednesdays, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Admission prices are as follows:
- Adults: $25
- Seniors (65+): $22
- Young Adults (19-24): $19
- Visitors with Disabilities: $19
- Students: Free with a valid ID
- Youth (18 and under): Free
Visitors can save time by purchasing tickets online in advance, or by becoming SFMOMA members, which grants free unlimited admission and other benefits.
Dining and Shopping
SFMOMA offers several dining options for visitors looking to refuel during their visit. The In Situ restaurant, located on the ground floor, features a menu inspired by dishes from world-renowned chefs, while the Sightglass Coffee Bar serves artisanal coffee and light bites.
The museum also has two stores where visitors can purchase art books, design objects, jewelry, and other items inspired by the collections and exhibitions. The main Museum Store is located on the first floor, while the Satellite Store can be found on the second floor.
Accessibility
SFMOMA is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors. The museum offers a range of services and accommodations for visitors with disabilities, including:
- Wheelchairs and portable stools available for loan
- Assistive listening devices for tours and public programs
- American Sign Language interpretation for select programs
- Large print and Braille versions of exhibition labels and text
- Accessible seating in theaters and auditoriums
Visitors with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the museum in advance for assistance and accommodation.
Transportation and Parking
SFMOMA is located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, easily accessible by public transportation. The museum is just a short walk from the Montgomery and Powell BART/Muni stations, as well as several bus and streetcar lines.
For those driving, the museum partners with the nearby Jessie Square Garage to offer discounted parking for visitors. The garage is located at 223 Stevenson Street, just a block from the museum.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to SFMOMA, consider the following tips:
- Check the museum's website for current exhibitions, programs, and events that may be of interest.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and ensure availability, especially for popular special exhibitions.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the museum's collections and exhibitions, or longer if you plan to attend tours, talks, or workshops.
- Take advantage of the museum's free public tours or audio guides to deepen your understanding and appreciation of the art on display.
- Don't forget to visit the museum's outdoor sculpture garden and terraces for unique perspectives on the art and the surrounding city.
- Make time to browse the Museum Stores for unique gifts and souvenirs inspired by the collections and exhibitions.
- If you plan to visit regularly, consider becoming an SFMOMA member to enjoy free admission, discounts, and other exclusive benefits.
Conclusion
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art, culture, and creativity of our time. With its world-class collections, thought-provoking exhibitions, and dynamic public programs, SFMOMA offers a rich and rewarding experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether you're a lifelong art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, SFMOMA invites you to explore, discover, and be inspired by the power and potential of modern and contemporary art. So why not plan your visit today? With its commitment to accessibility, education, and engagement, SFMOMA is the perfect place to ignite your passion for art and connect with the ideas and issues that shape our world.