San Francisco’s art scene is bustling this January, with a variety of exhibitions and events taking place across the city. Several prominent museums are showcasing diverse collections, offering visitors a chance to engage with both contemporary and historical works. Notable exhibitions include “Printing Color: Chiaroscuro to Screenprint” at the Legion of Honor, which closes on January 4, and “Rave into the Future: Art in Motion” at the Asian Art Museum, ending on January 12.
The exhibition “Mission Grafica: The Public’s Voice” will be on view at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts until January 20. This showcase highlights the rich tapestry of Latino artistic expression in the region. From January 17 to January 25, San Francisco Art Week will feature a series of events celebrating local artists and their contributions to the cultural landscape.
Upcoming Highlights and Special Events
On January 24, the Legion of Honor will open “Drawn to Venice,” which runs until August 2, 2026. This exhibition promises to take viewers on a visual journey through the storied city. Additionally, the work of Cece Carpio will be featured at SOMArts, opening on January 30.
One of the most exciting exhibitions currently on display is “Rave into the Future,” curated by Naz Cuguoğlu. This immersive experience is described as a “love letter to the dance floor,” featuring nine stages designed to evoke the sensation of attending a rave. The exhibition includes unique installations, such as Roombas that release glitter, adding a playful element to the artistic experience.
The Legion of Honor also presents “Manet and Morisot,” open until March 1. This exhibition explores the artistic dialogue between French painters Édouard Manet and Berthe Morisot, showcasing their innovative works that challenge traditional boundaries.
Engaging Community Programs
Visitors can take advantage of the Free First Sunday on January 4, which includes a variety of family-friendly activities, such as an augmented reality scavenger hunt. The museum’s regular hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, while it remains closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The Museum of the African Diaspora has recently reopened, featuring two new exhibitions, “Unbound: Art, Blackness and the Universe” and “Continuum: MoAD Over Time,” both running through August 16, 2026, and March 1, 2026 respectively. These exhibitions invite visitors to explore the complexities of Black identity and creativity.
Additionally, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) is hosting several notable shows, including “Boom and Bust: Photographing Northern California,” which chronicles the region’s history through photography, and “LEXICON” by artist Rose B. Simpson, on display until 2026.
With a range of exhibitions and community programs, January 2026 promises to be an exciting month for art lovers in San Francisco. Whether exploring the vibrant murals of the Mission District or engaging with thought-provoking contemporary art, visitors are sure to find something that resonates with them.