With so many things to do in San Francisco, it's easy to miss the many fantastic art exhibits and shows that pass through smaller galleries, as opposed to big museum shows. While it's nearly impossible for even the most ardent art lover to see it all, we've once again curated a collection of must see exhibits currently (or soon to be) gracing the walls of San Francisco's finest art spaces. Plan accordingly.
Dialogues in Drawing, Jenkins Johnson Gallery
Who runs the (art) world? The answer is "talented women" in this multi-artist exhibition is inspired by the struggles and victories of women artists living and working through social turbulence, contested identity politics and dramatic political change. Through May 13, Jenkins Johnson Gallery, 464 Sutter Street, SF.
Red Baron, The Compound Gallery
It's not every day that a local art exhibit features a full size airplane on display. "Red Baron: Tyler James Hoare Retrospective" takes a look at the artist's work from the 1960s through present day, including collages, masks, standing sculptures and yes, a plane. Through May 7, The Compound Gallery and Studios, 1167 65th Street, Oakland.
Transformations, Manna Gallery
Berkeley's own Judy Seidel debuts new work this month. In fact, the artist herself will be on hand the afternoon of Saturday, April 8 to discuss her boldly colorful abstract paintings and greet guests. Through May 6, Manna Gallery, 473 25th Street, Oakland.
Seeking Civilization: Art and Cartography, Gallery Wendi Norris
Deconstructed colonial maps and neon light installations documenting personal journeys in search of love are included in this group exhibition inspired by (you guessed it) maps. Seven modern and contemporary artists all offer takes on travel—without using GPS. Through May 6, Gallery Wendi Norris, 161 Jessie Street, SF.
Unbuilding Walls, Modernism West
What happens when you invite the public to enter into a three sided box with only two rules: no talking and no touching? This photo and video exhibit by Mushi and Alex Nichols explored just that. Find out for yourself in Foreign Cinema's chic gallery. Through May 31, Modernism West, Foreign Cinema, 2534 Mission Street, SF.
FULL STOP! Creativity Explored
Non-verbal artists Claus Groeger, Corine Raper and Hung Kei Shiu used mark making to explore visual language in this fascinating exhibition. The show's co-curator Hannah Grace Lilly especially intrigued us with her description: "There is something so quiet about the three artists, but something so incredibly loud about their artwork." Sounds (!) great to us. Through May 4, Creativity Explored, 3245 16th Street, SF.
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