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San Jose Museum of Art: A Hub for Contemporary Art

Discover modern and contemporary art at the San Jose Museum of Art, a cultural hub in the heart of Silicon Valley, showcasing West Coast artists and innovative exhibitions for all ages.

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The San Jose Museum of Art (SJMA), located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is a vibrant center for modern and contemporary art. Founded in 1969, the museum showcases a diverse collection of works, with a strong emphasis on West Coast artists and a growing interest in art from the Pacific Rim. Housed in a historic building that once served as San Jose's post office, SJMA blends architectural history with cutting-edge exhibitions. Visitors can explore paintings, sculptures, new media installations, and more, reflecting the innovative spirit of Silicon Valley. With its commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, SJMA offers a welcoming space for art lovers of all backgrounds to connect with socially relevant and thought-provoking works. The museum also provides educational programs and events, making art accessible to visitors of all ages. Don't miss the museum store for unique gifts and souvenirs, or the cafe for a refreshing break.

A brief summary to San Jose Museum of Art

  • Thursday 4 pm-9 pm
  • Friday 11 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Take advantage of free admission for youth 17 and under, college students, and teachers with valid ID.
  • Visit on the first Friday of the month for extended hours and free admission after 6 PM.
  • Join a free docent-led tour, offered on select days, for insights into the exhibitions.
  • Check the museum's calendar for family-friendly activities, artist talks, and special events.
  • Explore the Museum Store for unique art-related gifts and souvenirs.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Plaza de César Chávez, walk south along Market Street for one block. The San Jose Museum of Art will be on your left, at the corner of Market Street and San Fernando Street. The entrance is easily visible from the plaza. No costs are associated with this option.

  • Public Transport

    The closest VTA Light Rail stop is Convention Center Station, which is served by both the Blue and Green lines. From the station, walk north on Market Street for approximately 2 minutes (one block). The museum will be on your right. A single VTA fare is $2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Request a ride to 110 S Market St, San Jose. Most ride-share or taxi services will drop you off directly in front of the museum entrance on Market Street. The estimated cost from San Jose Diridon Station is $10-$15, depending on traffic and the specific service.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, exit onto Guadalupe Parkway (Highway 87) and take the Park Avenue exit. Turn left onto Park Avenue, then left again onto Almaden Boulevard. Turn right onto San Fernando Street, and the museum will be on the corner of Market Street and San Fernando. Several parking garages are located within a few blocks of the museum. Parking fees typically range from $7-$30 depending on the garage and the duration of your visit. Metered street parking is also available, costing approximately $2 per hour.

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Discover more about San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art (SJMA) stands as a beacon of contemporary art in the heart of Silicon Valley. Founded in 1969, the museum has evolved from a community-driven initiative to save a historic building into a leading institution dedicated to showcasing the art of our time. SJMA's story began when a group of artists and community leaders rallied to preserve the former San Jose post office, a Richardsonian Romanesque masterpiece designed by Willoughby J. Edbrooke in 1892, from demolition. This act of preservation laid the foundation for what would become a dynamic and influential art museum. Today, SJMA is celebrated for its diverse collection, which encompasses over 2,700 works spanning various media, including paintings, sculptures, installations, new media, photography, drawings, and prints. The museum's curatorial focus emphasizes West Coast artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, with a growing commitment to showcasing art from the Pacific Rim. This reflects San Jose's unique position as a global hub of innovation and cultural diversity. SJMA's commitment to inclusivity is evident in its programming and outreach efforts. The museum actively seeks to engage with the diverse communities of the South Bay, offering exhibitions and educational programs that resonate with their experiences and perspectives. SJMA is the largest provider of in-school arts education in Santa Clara County, serving over 45,000 children each year. The museum also provides exhibition didactics in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, San Jose's official languages, to minimize barriers to access. The museum's architecture is a compelling blend of old and new. The original 1892 building, a California Historical Landmark, exudes a sense of history and grandeur. In 1991, a modern addition, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, was added to provide expanded exhibition space. This "New Wing" features a light-filled atrium and sleek, contemporary galleries that complement the historic structure. Visiting SJMA is an immersive experience that engages the senses and stimulates the mind. The museum's exhibitions showcase a wide range of artistic styles and perspectives, from established masters to emerging talents. Visitors can explore thought-provoking installations, captivating paintings, and innovative new media works that reflect the social, cultural, and technological landscape of our time. SJMA's location in downtown San Jose makes it easily accessible to visitors from throughout the Bay Area and beyond. The museum is situated on Circle of Palms Plaza, adjacent to Plaza de César Chávez, a vibrant public space that hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year. The Tech Interactive, another popular San Jose attraction, is located nearby, making it easy to combine a visit to SJMA with other cultural experiences. Beyond its exhibitions, SJMA offers a variety of programs and events designed to enhance the visitor experience. Docent-led tours provide insights into the museum's collection and exhibitions, while artist talks and panel discussions offer opportunities to engage with the creative minds behind the art. The museum also hosts family-friendly activities and events, making it a destination for visitors of all ages. SJMA's Museum Store offers a curated selection of art books, exhibition catalogs, prints, jewelry, and unique souvenirs. It's the perfect place to find a memento of your visit or a gift for the art lover in your life. The Museum Café provides a relaxing space to enjoy a gourmet sandwich, homemade soup, fresh salad, or decadent dessert. An admission ticket is not required to visit the Museum Store or café. SJMA is more than just a museum; it's a community hub, a cultural resource, and a catalyst for creativity and innovation. Whether you're a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, you'll find something to inspire and engage you at the San Jose Museum of Art. SJMA's collection plan prioritizes community relevance and public access and places particular priority on acquiring works that reflect the cultural heritages and lived experiences of the community. SJMA supports its exhibition program with substantial arts education and outreach efforts, a strong commitment to community partnership, and a core commitment to nurturing a sense of belonging and welcome for all members of the racially, ethnically, and linguistically diverse community. SJMA minimizes barriers to access by offering weekend and evening hours, eliminating admission fees for students and teachers, and providing exhibition didactics in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese––San José's official languages. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are integral top priorities of the Museum's strategic plan.

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