What:
The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) opened its doors to the public this month after a three-year, $305 million expansion that makes it a truly world-class museum.
Why It Matters:
San Francisco is a hugely popular city for tourism, and the new SFMOMA is sure to be the must-see attraction of the summer. The transformation added a 10-story expansion that nearly triples the museum’s gallery space, allowing it to show more of its expanded collection of modern and contemporary art. SFMOMA is now bigger than New York’s famous Museum of Modern Art, and it’s affordable for families with free admission for guests ages 18 and younger.
Fast Facts:
- With nearly three times more gallery space than before, the museum opened with 19 special exhibitions, including a curated selection of 260 postwar and contemporary works from the distinguished Doris and Donald Fisher Collection.
- The addition was designed by the international architecture firm Snohetta.
- The museum distributed more than 5,000 free timed tickets for opening day to the public.
- Annual membership begins at $100. Adult admission is $25 and admission for seniors 65 years and older is $22. Admission for visitors ages 19 through 24 is $19. SFMOMA provides free admission to all visitors 18 and younger.
What They Are Saying:
“After years of planning and construction, it feels terrific to welcome visitors back to the museum,” said Neal Benezra, the Helen and Charles Schwab director of SFMOMA. “With our goal of providing more art to more people, now and for generations to come, we are excited to share the new museum experience we have created that features the distinguished Doris and Donald Fisher Collection, new works gifted or promised to us by 230 generous donors and the Pritzker Center for Photography which deepens our commitment to the medium.”
“Today, with the opening of this gorgeous museum expansion, San Francisco affirms our city’s place as a global leader of art and culture,” said Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi. “The new SFMOMA is a manifestation of our city’s deep respect for creativity, and it embodies the spirit and the generosity of the entire Bay Area Community. For that, we are very proud, and very thankful indeed.”
“San Francisco is a city of big ideas, and SFMOMA is a really big idea — and now, a big reality,” said San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee. “Not only is the new SFMOMA a place to showcase innovative art, culture and education initiatives, but it is a piece of art itself in the Yerba Buena Art District. The museum is a major draw for visitors, residents, families and youth from around the world, and its contribution to the Bay Area economy will now grow significantly with its new expansion.”
The Details
San Francisco Museum of Modern Artwww.sfmoma.org
