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San Jose Museum of Art: A Hub for West Coast Creativity

Explore modern and contemporary art at SJMA in downtown San Jose, celebrating West Coast artists and innovative new media.

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The San Jose Museum of Art (SJMA), located in downtown San Jose, is dedicated to modern and contemporary art, with a focus on West Coast artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. Housed in a historic building that once served as San Jose's post office, SJMA offers a diverse collection and a dynamic program of exhibitions.

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

  • Visit on the first Friday of the month after 6 pm for free admission.
  • Take advantage of the free docent-led tours offered on Thursdays at 5 pm and Friday–Sunday at 1 pm and 2:30 pm.
  • Check the museum's calendar for family-friendly activities, events, and exhibit openings.
  • The Museum Store and Cafe do not require an admission ticket to enter.
  • Students, teachers, and youth 17 and under receive free admission.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Plaza de César Chávez, walk south on Market Street. The museum is located on the west side of the street, at the corner of Market and San Fernando Streets. No cost.

  • Public Transport

    From San Jose Diridon Station, take the VTA Light Rail Green Line to the San Antonio Station. Walk north for about 5 minutes to the museum. Alternatively, take the Line 22 bus from Santa Clara & Montgomery to Santa Clara & Almaden Ave. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop. Light Rail fare is approximately $3. Bus fare is $2-$5.

  • Driving

    From Highway 101, take the Guadalupe Parkway (Highway 87) south to the San Fernando Street exit. Turn right onto San Fernando Street, and the museum will be on your right. Several parking garages are available near the museum. Parking costs range from $5-$31.

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Discover more about San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art (SJMA) is a leading cultural institution in the heart of Silicon Valley, celebrating creativity, new ideas, and visionary thinking. Founded in 1969, the museum has evolved from a community art gallery to a renowned showcase for modern and contemporary art, with a particular emphasis on West Coast artists and a growing interest in art from the Pacific Rim. The museum's building itself is a blend of history and modernity. The original wing, designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style by Willoughby J. Edbrooke, dates back to 1892 and served as San Jose's main post office. Saved from demolition by a group of concerned citizens, it was transformed into the Civic Art Gallery and later became the San Jose Museum of Art. In 1991, a modern addition designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill was added, providing expanded exhibition space. SJMA's collection includes over 2,700 works, spanning various media such as painting, sculpture, photography, and new media installations. The museum is committed to showcasing both established and emerging artists, with a focus on works that reflect the diverse cultural heritages and experiences of the community. Exhibitions range from solo shows to thematic group exhibitions, addressing relevant social issues and exploring new trends in contemporary art, architecture, and design. Beyond its exhibitions, SJMA offers a range of programs and events, including docent-led tours, family-friendly activities, and community celebrations. The museum is also dedicated to arts education, providing in-school programs and resources for students of all ages. The Museum Store offers a curated selection of art books, jewelry, and unique gifts, while the Museum Café provides a space to relax and enjoy refreshments.

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