San Francisco Museum of Modern Art - The Structure
Many of us have come to identify our modern art museum with the Mario Botta design that anchors the Yerba Buena Arts District in SoMa. Long-term residents will remember that for 60 years prior to the Botta unveiling, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art resided at the War Memorial Veterans Building at Civic Center.
The museum's 1995 move from its Beaux-Arts home to Botta's modernist structure, doubled SF MOMA's exhibit space to 50,000 square feet -- and made brilliant use of natural light throughout the four floors of galleries.
Museum Exhibits and Collections
Opened in 1935, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art was the first museum on the West coast devoted to 20th-century art. Today, its collection includes major works cutting through the wide spectrum of modern art, including painting, sculpture and photography.
Since its opening, SF MOMA's exhibits have featured (among many others) Rene Magritte, Roy Lichtenstein, Hiroshi Sugimoto, and Picasso, as well as special programs such as the recent California College of the Arts at 100 exhibition.
SF MOMA Amenities
The museum has an exceptional gift shop on the lower level, accessible by separate entry if you're not visiting the museum itself. In addition to items relating to the current exhibition, the shop features art books, gifts, and a children's section with art-related literature and toys.
The Caffe Museo, also on the ground level, features light fare such as panini and salads.
Special Events at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
On Thursday evenings you'll see people queueing up for the half-price admission after 6p (until 9p). The museum also offers family programs that include hands-on activities for parents and children. Regular film screenings and tours are listed on the monthly calendar, as well.
Location
151 Third Street (between Mission & Howard)
See: San Francisco Museum Map
San Francisco, CA 94103
Telephone: (415) 357-4000
SF MOMA Website
The SF MOMA website lists current admission prices and discounts.
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is free on the first Tuesday of each month.
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