SOMArts is a critical resource for contemporary arts production in San Francisco. The organization produces three of its own curated exhibitions annually, along with numerous collaborative programs, and provides space for four guest-curated exhibitions annually through the Commons Curatorial Residency Program, which includes a stipend for selected curators and/or artist groups in addition to outreach and production support. The vaulted, 2-story gallery is 3,100 sq feet, a majestic space and the largest open gallery space in the city.
Through its Affordable Space Program, SOMArts annually hosts group exhibitions for ArtSpan Open Studios (October), the National Queer Arts Festival (June) and the United States of Asian America Festival (May).
The SOMArts Main Gallery exhibits the work of over 1,000 Bay Area artists each year, providing them with dynamic opportunities to take risks, find new collaborators, reach a wider audience, and achieve their vision. SOMArts’ Curator & Gallery Director Justin Hoover annually curates 2–3 exhibitions and supports curatorial residencies.
In 2009, SOMArts created the RAMP gallery, a smaller space located in the Center’s lobby to provide a highly visible display space for smaller spontaneous shows proposed by community members.The RAMP consists of two secure wall-mounted cases (24.75″ x 37″ and 137″ x 37″). Exhibitions range from a week to a month. For more information email gallery@somarts.org.
The mission of SOMArts is to promote and nurture art on the community level, and to foster an appreciation of and respect for all cultures. Founded in 1979, SOMArts embraces the entire spectrum of arts practice and cultural identity, and it is beloved in San Francisco as a truly multicultural, community-built space where cutting-edge events and counterculture commingle with traditional art forms.
SOMArts (South of Market Arts, Resources, Technology, and Services) has a colorful history that spans over 40 years and is garnished with many periods of celebration, struggle and transformation. Although it has not always gone by the same name, the mission of creating a cultural resource for the local community has been a constant.
SOMArts spaces are available to rent for theatrical productions, community meetings, benefits, social and cultural events. The Cultural Center has three large areas available for public use as well as several smaller meeting areas. We also have studio, dance, classroom and rehearsal space available. Priority is given to activities that are suitable to SOMArts’ artistic mission and role as caretaker of a city-owned cultural facility.
Volunteering is a great way to make a difference and get to know the SOMArts community a little better. We have been fortunate to receive a growing number of inquiries over the past year and are working diligently to properly respect and utilize your skills and make the most of your time for the benefit of our mission.