With so many things to do in San Francisco, it's easy to miss the many fantastic art exhibits and shows that pass through smaller galleries, as opposed to big museum shows.. While it's nearly impossible for even the most ardent art lover to see it all, we've once again curated a collection of must see exhibits currently (or soon to be) gracing the walls of San Francisco's finest art spaces. Plan accordingly:
"Interwoven: Native California Baskets," University of San Francisco Thacher Gallery
There's no more perfect autumnal exhibit than a look at some truly amazing Native American baskets, primarily drawn from the collections of the California Missions. Over 40 baskets fill this show, each made from natural materials (obviously) and each uniquely stunning. We particularly like the idea of blending artistry, functionality and history. "Interwoven" is a triple-threat—and it's free! Through November 1, Fulton and Parker Streets, San Francisco
"Today is the Shadow of Tomorrow," SoMArts Cultural Center
Just in time for Halloween, delve into SoMArts colorful 16th annual Day of the Dead exhibit. This year's timely theme is a call to an end to institutional racism and violence. Don't miss the chance to pray (or meditate, etc.) at one of the 25 altars created by over 80 artists. Through November 7, 934 Brannan Street, San Francisco
"David Burke, Kyong Ae Kim & Cyrus Tilton: Seeking Balance," Vessel Gallery
What happens when three artists answer the question, "What is precious?" The answer is "Seeking Balance," this month's painting and sculpture exhibit from Oakland's Vessel Gallery. The gallery alone is worth a visit, located in a historic, 100-year old former horse stable. Through November 14, 471 25th Street, Oakland
"The Archive Show," Intersection for the Arts
Intersection for the Arts has been a San Francisco arts institution for 50 years, and artist/curator Lexa Walsh has decided it's time to bring us "The Archive Show." This exhibit is a look back at 50 years of the organization's history; from phone memos to staff meeting notes, Intersection for the Arts is turning their own past into art. Don't miss the exhibit's oral histories and videos of past performances. Through November 22, 925 Mission Street, San Francisco
"All About the Light," Robert Tat Gallery
Photography fans won't want to miss this look at light. Really—this is a photography exhibit exclusively featuring artists who use light in extraordinary ways. Make sure you take some time at the entire wall of photograms, which are created by placing objects directly onto photo paper and exposing them to light. Through November 28, 49 Geary Street, San Francisco
"The Art of the Brick," Bedford Gallery at the Lesher Center for the Arts
The bricks in question in the Bedford Gallery's "Art of the Brick" are LEGOs. LEGOs! New York artist Nathan Sawaya has created painstakingly crafted artistic pieces using nothing but LEGOs, and collaborated with photographer Dean West, who's created large-scale compositions incorporating Sawaya's LEGO sculptures into West's photographs. Artsy, yes, but everyone loves LEGOs. Through December 20, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek