January 2026 offers an exciting array of exhibitions across various museums in San Francisco, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions. Key highlights include the closing of “Printing Color: Chiaroscuro to Screenprint” at the Legion of Honor on January 4 and “Rave into the Future: Art in Motion” at the Asian Art Museum which concludes on January 12.
Another notable exhibition, “Mission Grafica: The Public’s Voice,” continues through January 20 at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts. Art enthusiasts can also mark their calendars for San Francisco Art Week, running from January 17 to January 25, which promises a wealth of cultural events and activities throughout the city.
Featured Exhibitions and Events
At the Legion of Honor, the exhibition “Drawn to Venice” opens on January 24 and runs until August 2, 2026, providing a unique exploration of Venetian art. The SOMArts gallery will host a showcase of Cece Carpio‘s work beginning on January 30.
Visitors to the Asian Art Museum can experience “Rave into the Future: Art in Motion,” curated by Naz Cuguoğlu. This exhibition, described as a “love letter to the dance floor,” features nine immersive stages that replicate the rave experience. Julie Zigoris reports that the event includes whimsical elements like Roombas dispensing glitter, adding a festive atmosphere to the exhibition.
On January 4, the museum will host its Free First Sunday, featuring a range of activities including an augmented reality scavenger hunt, inviting families and art lovers to engage in a creative adventure.
Ongoing Exhibitions and Upcoming Openings
Other noteworthy exhibitions include “Manet and Morisot” at the Legion of Honor, which runs through March 1. This exhibit offers a rare opportunity to examine the artistic dialogue between the two renowned French painters, showcasing their works side by side.
At the Museum of the African Diaspora, visitors can explore two new exhibitions: “Unbound: Art, Blackness and the Universe,” open until August 16, 2026, and “Continuum: MoAD Over Time,” which runs through March 1, 2026. These exhibitions aim to expand the understanding of Black identity and its representation in art.
Not to be missed is the SFMOMA exhibition “People Make This Place: SFAI Stories,” which continues until July 5, 2026. This show celebrates the San Francisco Art Institute’s influence on the local art scene, featuring works from alumni and faculty.
In addition to exhibitions, many museums are offering special programs. The de Young Museum has introduced “Takeout Tuesdays,” allowing visitors to engage in discussions about specific artworks online with docents and fellow art enthusiasts.
As San Francisco’s museums continue to thrive, they offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences for residents and visitors alike. From historic exhibitions to contemporary art, January presents a vibrant opportunity to immerse oneself in the city’s dynamic art scene.
