(featured image) Claire Lau, Sunset Moonrise From Fillmore, 2024. Oil on Canvas, 5 x 7 in. *Courtesy of Inclusions Gallery
Get ready for an incredible week of art and creativity in San Francisco! Whether you’re drawn to quilting as a tool for storytelling at Saint Joseph’s Arts Foundation, the whimsical charm of “a ball” at Minnesota Street Project, or festive finds at Southern Exposure’s Holiday Sale, this week’s lineup has something for everyone. Looking for more? Explore art anniversaries at Inclusions Gallery, groove to DJ sets at Dark Entries, or immerse yourself in Mirus Gallery’s dazzling multimedia showcase. And the weekend? It’s packed with local markets, open studios, and cutting-edge exhibits at Canessa Gallery and Hashimoto Contemporary.
Scroll down to see the full lineup and start planning your art-filled adventures now!
Wednesday, Dec. 4th
*Poster courtesy of Saint Joseph’s Arts Foundation
Saint Joseph’s Arts Foundation
Wed, Dec. 4th 6-8PM
Saint Joseph’s Arts Foundation presents “Unexpected Connections: Quilting and the Social Fabric,” a conversation exploring quilting as both an art form and a social practice. Led by Sunny A. Smith, the event will feature artists from Packing and Cracking: The Art of (and Response to) Gerrymandering and delve into how quilts serve as powerful tools for storytelling, activism, and cultural identity. *Tickets $10 (Free for members)
*Banner courtesy of Minnesota Street Project Foundation
Minnesota Street Project Foundation
Wed, Dec. 4th 6:30-9:30PM
Minnesota Street Project Foundation presents “a ball,” an engaging two-part event supporting the Artist Studios program and a new residency initiative. The evening features cocktails, ball-themed amusements, a mini-auction, and new work by artist-in-residence Leah Rosenberg, inviting guests to celebrate art in a playful and unique way. *Tickets $150-$250. Use promo code “FOUNDATION” for $40 tickets to Part II from 6:30-9:30PM.
Thursday, Dec. 5th
*Poster courtesy of Southern Exposure
Southern Exposure
Thu-Sat, Dec. 5th-7th 4-7PM & 12-7PM
Southern Exposure’s 2024 Holiday Sale offers three festive days of original artworks, discounted prints, merchandise, and unique gifts, all while supporting Bay Area arts programming. Don’t miss Saturday’s special Artist in Education popup and local artist vendors, perfect for holiday shopping. (Dec. 5th – 7th)
*Poster courtesy of Inclusions Gallery
Inclusions Gallery
Thu, Dec. 5th 5-8PM
Inclusions Gallery presents “Retrospective 17,” an annual group exhibition celebrating 17 years of showcasing San Francisco Bay Area artists. Featuring works by Paula Pietranera, Heidi McDowell, Poppy Dodge, and more, along with ceramics and jewelry by talented local artisans. (Nov. 30th – Jan. 18th, 2025)
*Banner courtesy of Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco
Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco (ICA SF)
Thu, Dec. 5th 6-7PM
Join Assistant Curator Meghan Smith at ICA SF for a free curatorial tour of current exhibitions, including “The Poetics of Dimensions,” “Maryam Yousif: Riverbend,” and “Spotlight: Kathleen Ryan.” Explore the gallery with free coloring pages and hands-on art activities.
The Four Fives: History of the American Zombie album cover by Christopher Burch, 2024. *Courtesy of San Francisco Arts Commission
San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) x San Francisco Public Library (SFPL)
Thu, Dec. 5th 6-7:30PM
Join SFAC and SFPL for “The Four Fives: History of the American Zombie,” a multimedia project by artist Christopher Burch and musician Rasul Grayson. This evocative work blends music, poetry, and Afro-Surrealism to explore racial oppression and celebrate Black identity.
*Poster courtesy of 5 Olive Gallery
5 Olive Gallery
Thu, Dec. 5th 6-10PM
Join 5 Olive Gallery for the closing party of Devon Blood’s “The Left Hand Path,” part of the Tenderloin Art Walk. Enjoy a holiday fiesta with a live band, ornament-making, festive cheer, and a special Mezcal tasting from Oaxaca, along with the opportunity to purchase Blood’s black velvet paintings.
*Banner courtesy of Mirus Gallery
Mirus Gallery
Thu, Dec. 5th 6-10PM
Mirus Gallery presents “Wonderland SF,” a group show curated by Irene Hernandez Feiks, featuring over 100 multimedia artists. The opening reception includes live music, a bar, and many of the artists in attendance. (Dec. 5th – Mar. 7th, 2025)
*Poster courtesy of Moth Belly Gallery
Moth Belly Gallery
Thu, Dec. 5th 6-10PM
Moth Belly Gallery presents “Just A Moment,” a solo exhibition by Neena Holzman, featuring dreamlike paintings capturing the magic and details of city life, coinciding with the SF First Thursday Art Walk.
*Artwork: Alice Koswara, Ella. *Courtesy of the Artist
One & Done
Thu, Dec. 5th 6-10PM
Join One & Done for their annual art show featuring works from talented local artists like Alice Koswara, April January, Ben Ahn, Chris Farris, and more. Don’t miss out on a night of creativity, music, and a vibrant community of artists and art lovers.
Friday, Dec. 6th
*Banner courtesy of ShopDineSF
ShopDineSF @ San Francisco Center
Fri, Dec. 6th-7th 1-5PM & 11AM-4PM
Discover unique gifts from over 70 San Francisco makers and small businesses at ShopDineSF’s Holiday Pop-Up at San Francisco Center. Celebrate the season while supporting local creativity and artisans. (Dec. 6th – 7th)
*Banner courtesy of California College of the Arts (CCA)
California College of the Arts (CCA)
Fri, Dec. 6th 5-8PM
Join CCA for the “Fall 2024 Design Senior Thesis Show,” showcasing the work of graduating students in BFA Graphic Design, Illustration, and Industrial Design. The opening reception includes light refreshments and requires RSVP for entry.
*Photo courtesy of Castro Art Walk
Castro Art Walk
Fri, Dec. 6th 5-8PM
Experience the Castro Art Walk, showcasing local galleries, shops, and cafes featuring art exhibitions, live music, and refreshments. Enhance your evening with a guided walking tour starting at 5:15PM, led by a knowledgeable guide who will share insights into the neighborhood’s art and history.
Artwork: Samedi Djeimguero, Untitled, 2018. Mixed Media on Paper, 22.25 x 30 in. *Courtesy of Creativity Explored
Creativity Explored
Fri, Dec. 6th 5-8PM
Celebrate the opening of Creativity Explored’s Holiday Art Shop with a festive soirée featuring unique gifts, custom wrapping stations, drinks, and music. Proceeds support artists with disabilities, making this a holiday event with heart.
*Poster courtesy of Upper Market Gallery
Upper Market Gallery
Fri, Dec. 6th-7th 5-8PM & 11AM-5PM
Join Upper Market Gallery for “Holiday Prism,” a group exhibition featuring ceramics, life sculpture, jewelry, and paintings. The event kicks off with an opening reception on Friday Dec. 6th, 5-8PM, followed by gallery hours and Ikebana floral workshops over the weekend. (Dec. 6th – 8th)
*Poster courtesy of Canessa Gallery
Canessa Gallery
Fri, Dec. 6th 5-8:30PM
Canessa Gallery presents “Peripheral Perceptions: Jaggedmetrism One,” a debut exhibition by Jean Carlos Moreno, featuring freehand drafted works exploring shifting world perspectives through the lens of architecture, design, and contemporary drawing.
*Poster courtesy of anälog Gallery
anälog Gallery
Fri, Dec. 6th 5-9PM
anälog Gallery presents “Transcendence – Artists of Ukraine,” showcasing over 30 works by six Ukrainian contemporary artists living internationally. Curated by Tamara Lee, this exhibition celebrates the resilience of Ukrainian art and supports Heal Ukraine Trauma (HUT), a mental health non-profit. (Dec. 6th – 23rd)
*Poster courtesy of Michael Ilumin x SFOG
SFOG @ 314 Grant Avenue
Fri, Dec. 6th 5-11PM
Michael Ilumin presents “Wood & Whiskey” at SFOG in North Beach, blending handcrafted wooden art, laser-cut hat feathers, limited-edition whiskey glasses, and a themed whiskey cocktail. The event, part of the First Fridays Art Walk, celebrates craftsmanship and innovation in an immersive evening of art and culture.
Saturday, Dec. 7th
*Poster courtesy of East Bay Open Studios
East Bay Open Studios – Oakland
Sat-Sun, Dec. 7th-8th 11AM-5PM
Visit over 160 artists in their studios during East Bay Open Studios. Explore a diverse range of artwork, support local talent, find unique holiday gifts, and connect with the vibrant creative community during this special winter event. (Dec. 7th – 8th)
*Poster courtesy of Minnesota Street Project
Minnesota Street Project
Sat, Dec. 7th 12-7PM
Join Minnesota Street Project for “Wonderland,” a holiday art market featuring unique works from Minnesota Street Project Studio Artists and art galleries, along with wreath-making and crafting starting at noon. From 5-7PM, enjoy gallery opening receptions, drinks, and a vinyl set, while exploring the neighborhood’s holiday events in collaboration with The Dogpatch Business Association.
*Banner courtesy of International Art Museum of America (IAMA)
International Art Museum of America (IAMA) x Lightspace Gallery
Sat, Dec. 7th 3-5PM
IAMA presents “unprimed,” a solo exhibition by Samuel Perry at Lightspace Gallery, featuring large abstract paintings on unprimed canvas, exploring the tension between control and spontaneity through raw materials and intuitive gestures. (Dec. 3rd – Jan. 3rd, 2025)
Artwork: Carrie Crawford (left), Karyn Gabriel (right). *Courtesy of Hugomento
Hugomento
Sat, Dec. 7th 3-6PM
Hugomento presents “Holding Space: Pattern, Form, Thread,” a two-person exhibition featuring textile art by Carrie Crawford and ceramic sculptures by Karyn Gabriel. The show explores the interplay of pattern, form, and material in these dynamic works.
Artwork: Chris Natrop, Ultraviolet Super Bloom, 2024. Acrylic on Paper, 45.75 x 35.5 in. *Courtesy of Nancy Toomey Fine Art
Nancy Toomey Fine Art
Sat, Dec. 7th 4-6PM
Nancy Toomey Fine Art presents “Any Way Shape Or Form,” an exhibition by Chris Natrop featuring 13 hand-cut paper and acrylic landscapes reflecting emotional and psychological shifts at Minnesota Street Project. Meet the artist at the reception and immerse yourself in these intricate works. (Dec. 4th – Jan. 25th, 2025)
*Poster courtesy of Slash Art
Slash Art
Sat, Dec. 7th 4-6PM
Experience “Feral Frequencies,” a live AM radio séance by artist Xiaowei R. Wang at Slash Art. This participatory performance, tied to Wang’s installation, “An Archive of Witch Fever,” invites attendees to tune in, encode messages, and connect with spirits of the past.
*Banner courtesy of Lower Haight Merchants & Neighbors Association
Lower Haight Holiday Art Walk
Sat, Dec. 7th 4-7PM
Join the Lower Haight Holiday Art Walk for an evening of art, music, and community, featuring local businesses, live performances, and unique artists’ creations. Explore vibrant offerings, from art shows and live jazz to pottery, holiday markets, and more, celebrating the creative spirit of Lower Haight.
*Banner courtesy of Upside Artspace
Upside Artspace
Sat, Dec. 7th 4-9PM
Join Upside Artspace for “Heresy Cake,” a collage art exhibition, showcasing provocative works that explore themes of rebellion, identity, and transformation. Through bold compositions and surreal imagery, Heresy Cake challenges conventions and invites viewers to confront the tensions between beauty, chaos, and sociopolitical commentary.
Artwork: Seonna Hong. *Courtesy of Hashimoto Contemporary
Hashimoto Contemporary
Sat, Dec. 7th 5-7PM
Hashimoto Contemporary presents “The Jaunt: Winter Camp,” a group exhibition featuring new works by Genevieve Cohn, Seonna Hong, and Bianca Nemelc. These artists reunite following a transformative week-long residency with The Jaunt. (Dec. 7th – 21st)
Artwork: Amalia Mesa-Bains, Sleeping Nun in Venus Envy Chapter III: Cihuatlampa, The Place of the Giant Women, 1997-2024. Jacquard Tapestry, 57 x 70 in. Edition of 3. *Courtesy of Rena Bransten Gallery
Rena Bransten Gallery
Sat, Dec. 7th 5-7PM
Rena Bransten Gallery presents “Summoning,” featuring works by artists such as Dawoud Bey, Sydney Cain, Hung Liu, and Amalia Mesa-Bains that explore art as a tool for evocation. Through diverse media, the exhibition delves into ancestral connections, spiritual invocations, and the interplay between history and memory, including Mesa-Bains’ tapestry Sleeping Nun and Viviana Paredes’ glass sculpture honoring Mazatec healer Maria Sabina. (Nov. 23rd – Jan. 11th, 2025)
Artwork: Cynthia McIntosh, Noble Lady Wilhelmina, 2024. Porcelain Slip on Clay Body with Underglaze and Oil Paint, 50 in. *Courtesy of Themes + Projects
Themes + Projects
Sat, Dec. 7th 5-7PM
Themes + Projects hosts Cynthia McIntosh’s artist reception for her exhibition “Noble Ladies,” featuring new large-scale sculptures and paintings. The event coincides with Minnesota Street Project’s First Saturday Late Night. (Nov. 2nd – Jan. 25th, 2025)
Artwork: Reynolds Parkinson, Red Foxes, c. 1994. Oil on Canvas, 60 x 80 in. *Courtesy of House of Seiko
House of Seiko
Sat, Dec. 7th 5-8PM
House of Seiko presents Part One of “Ariel,” a rare exhibition featuring the work of Bay Area artist Ariel Reynolds Parkinson (1926–2017), celebrated for her surreal, nature-inspired art. Organized by Zully Adler, the show highlights Ariel’s evocative storytelling through paintings that weave together mythology, social change, and a haunting, whimsical style. (Dec. 7th – 22nd)
*Poster courtesy of Galeria de la Raza
Galeria de la Raza
Sat, Dec. 7th 5-9PM
Galería de la Raza presents “Rooted,” a multidisciplinary group exhibition curated by Xochitl Priscilla, featuring artwork by women born, raised, and residing in San Francisco. Through diverse mediums, the show explores personal narratives and connections to home, reflecting themes of memory, community, family, and everyday life. (Dec. 7th – Feb. 14th, 2025)
*Banner courtesy of HUNT & GATHER
HUNT & GATHER
Sat, Dec. 7th 6-9PM
Join HUNT & GATHER for their Winter art show, “RETROSPECT,” featuring handpicked favorites from past exhibitions and their biggest print sale of the year. Celebrate the holiday season with timeless pieces, gift-wrapped with love, and take home local art to share with loved ones. (Dec. 5th – 24th)
Artwork: Igor Lipskykh, Portrait in a Blue Blouse (detail). *Courtesy of Ryan Graff Contemporary
Ryan Graff Contemporary
Sat, Dec. 7th 6-9PM
Ryan Graff Contemporary presents “Strangers,” the debut US solo exhibition of Ukrainian artist Igor Lipskykh. Through fragmented portraits, Lipskykh explores themes of identity, displacement, and resilience, offering a poignant reflection on hope amidst the ongoing turmoil in Ukraine. (Dec. 7th – Jan. 18th, 2025)
Sunday, Dec. 8th
*Poster courtesy of International Art and Cultural Exchange Association
International Art and Cultural Exchange Association
Sun, Dec. 8th 10:30-11:30AM
Join the International Art and Cultural Exchange Association for the Chingchu Wu art exhibition and reception at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall of San Francisco, where you can explore Wu’s captivating artwork filled with vibrant colors and intricate textures. This in-person event offers a chance to meet the artist, enjoy food and drinks, and connect with fellow art lovers.
*Banner courtesy of Hunters Point Shipyard
Hunters Point Shipyard
Sun, Dec. 8th 11AM-5PM
Kick off your holiday shopping at the Shipyard Holiday Art Show 2024 at Hunters Point Shipyard. Explore over 50 local artists in the serene Building 101 studios, discover unique handmade gifts, and enjoy festive treats—all with free admission and accessible amenities.
*Flyer courtesy of Mission Craft Holiday Market
Mission Craft Holiday Market @ Groundfloor
Sun, Dec. 8th 11AM-5PM
Celebrate the season at Mission Craft Holiday Market, featuring 30 talented artists and makers at Groundfloor. Shop a curated selection of ceramics, candles, jewelry, and more, all while supporting local creators.
*Banner courtesy of The Faight Collective
The Faight Collective
Sun, Dec. 8th 5-10PM
Join The Faight Collective for their first annual “Taste the Faight” Gala, celebrating a year of growth, community, and art with curated bites, live music, interactive gallery displays, and a live fashion show. This evening of reflection and celebration will highlight the collective’s impact and vision for a positive future in the Lower Haight and beyond. *Tickets $50-$300