With so many things to do in San Francisco, it's easy to miss the many fantastic art exhibits that pass through smaller galleries, as opposed to the big museum shows. While it's nearly impossible for even the most ardent art lover to see it all, we've curated a collection of must-see exhibits currently (or soon to be) gracing the walls of San Francisco's finest art spaces. Plan accordingly.
Sophie Calle: Missing, Fort Mason Center for Arts and Culture
This retrospective of acclaimed French artist Sophie Calle brings five of her most prominent projects to Fort Mason. The former Mills College teacher has show her work from Brazil to Belgium, but this is the most extensive collection ever shown in the United States. Fort Mason Center for Art and Culture, 2 Marina Blvd (fortmason.org). Through Aug 20.
Drawing Water Standing Still: Andy Goldsworthy, Haines Gallery
British photographer and filmmaker Andy Goldsworthy currently lives in Scotland and uses his rustic surroundings to inspire his work. Natural materials such as kelp, rocks, ice and dust all work their way into Goldsworthy's pieces, which range from sculpture to large-scale installations. You might recognize his name from Leaning into the Wind, a documentary about the well-regarded artist at the San Francisco International Film Festival, or seen his sculpture (inspired by earthquakes) at the entrance to the deYoung Museum. Haines Gallery, 49 Geary (hainesgallery.com). Through July 29.
abstract7, Manna Gallery
Five South Bay artists who work under the name abstract7 present new works in this group exhibition. We're particularly excited about the work of artist Yao-pi Hsu who distorts colors in her dreamlike photography. While you're over at Manna Gallery, contribute to its 'Inside America' series and answer the gallery's question, "If you were to imagine your idea of a perfect America what would it look like?" The answers will be part of a future show. Manna Gallery, 473 25th St, Oakland (mannagallery.com). Through July 29.
The Present Tense, Ratio 3
You'll want to hit up this art show twice. A series of back-to-back two-person exhibitions allows Ratio 3 to explore themes across different artistic practices. Here are the details: From June 24–July 13, check out pieces by the iconic late French artist Louise Bourgeois and (drumroll please) R. Crumb. Then from July 15–August 4, the show will feature R. Crumb and San Francisco native and graffiti artist Barry McGee. Art fans, this is going to be one for the books. Ratio 3, 2831A Mission St (ratio3.org). Through Aug 4.
Gail Ragains, Slate Contemporary
Redwood City artist Gail Ragains is on the rise and surrounded by buzz. Her abstract scenes and use of rich colors are absolutely mesmerizing and accessible. We want Ragains' work on our walls. Slate Contemporary's Hall Gallery, 473 25th Street, Oakland (slateart.net). Through July 31.
Free Trade, Chinese Culture Center
What would art that examines the vast history of importing and exporting goods across the Pacific Ocean look like? That's the question answered in a new exhibit in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown. Numerous artists and designers have contributed to this show, which challenges the way we view our global supply chain. Chinese Cultural Center, 750 Kearny St (cccsf.us). Through Aug 8.
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