Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Holiday Cards

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create vibrant holiday cards using watercolor, brush pens, or markers and dedicate it to someone special.

Films

A Revolution on Canvas

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, December 18, 2024, 2 PM

A hybrid political thriller and verité portrait documentary, A Revolution on Canvas examines the international controversy of Nicky Nodjoumi’s 120 missing artworks in Iran.

Public Programs

22nd Annual Parol Lantern Festival

Presented by Filipino-American Development Foundation & SOMA Pilipinas

Saturday, December 14, 2024 3–8 PM

Join us this holiday season for a fun-filled cultural festival of food, drinks, art, dance, and music.

Panel Discussion

In Conversation: Nicky Nodjoumi & Dr. Layla S. Diba

Presented by Farhang Foundation

Saturday, December 14, 2024, 11 AM

A live virtual talk on December 14, 2024, featuring the remarkable Iranian contemporary artist Nicky Nodjoumi in conversation with esteemed scholar and curator Dr. Layla S. Diba.

Dance

Smuin’s The Christmas Ballet

Presented by Smuin Contemporary Ballet

December 13–24, 2024

+ Read more

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Mini Parol Lanterns

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create your own mini parol using an array of materials such as paper plates, colored cellophane, tissue paper, and yarn.

Films

A Revolution on Canvas

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, December 11, 2024, 2 PM

A hybrid political thriller and verité portrait documentary, A Revolution on Canvas examines the international controversy of Nicky Nodjoumi’s 120 missing artworks in Iran.

Public Programs

Second Sunday: Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, December 8, 2024, 11 AM-5 PM

Discover the work and lives of artists Nicky Nodjoumi and Nahid Hagigat during this documentary screening and curator-led tour.

Performances

Dance-Along Nutcracker 2024 – Mission: Nutcracker

Presented by San Francisco Pride Band

December 7 & 8, 2024

A fun-filled original musical production brimming with wit, artistry and ingenuity.

Public Programs

Downtown First Thursday: Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, December 5, 2024, 5-8 PM

See a documentary and experience a curator-led tour to go deeper with the work of Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Parol Clay Ornaments

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 2–4 PM

Explore the therapeutic nature of clay by creating your version of parol-inspired ornaments.

Films

A Revolution on Canvas

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, December 4, 2024, 2 PM

A hybrid political thriller and verité portrait documentary, A Revolution on Canvas examines the international controversy of Nicky Nodjoumi’s 120 missing artworks in Iran.

Performances

The Velveteen Rabbit

Presented by ODC/Dance

November 30–December 8, 2024

The Velveteen Rabbit returns to the stage with the 38th anniversary of the beloved Bay Area holiday tradition.

Workshops

Parol Lantern Workshop

Presented by SOMA Pilipinas

Sunday, November 24, 2024, 12-4 PM

Learn how to make your own parol lantern with materials and instruction provided by SOMA Pilipinas.

Workshops

Parol Lantern Workshop

Presented by SOMA Pilipinas

Saturday, November 23, 2024, 12-4 PM

Learn how to make your own parol lantern with materials and instruction provided by SOMA Pilipinas.

Workshops

Parol Lantern Workshop

Presented by SOMA Pilipinas

Sunday, November 17, 2024, 12-4 PM

Learn how to make your own parol lantern with materials and instruction provided by SOMA Pilipinas.

Workshops

Parol Lantern Workshop

Presented by SOMA Pilipinas

Saturday, November 16, 2024, 12-4 PM

Learn how to make your own parol lantern with materials and instruction provided by SOMA Pilipinas.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Parol Felt Charms

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, November 13, 2024, 2–4 PM

Experiment with color and texture by using soft materials such as felt to create a vibrant 3D parol felt charm.

Public Programs

Second Sunday: Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, November 10, 2024, 11 AM-5 PM

Discover the work and lives of artists Nicky Nodjoumi and Nahid Hagigat during this documentary screening.

Public Programs

Downtown First Thursday: Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, November 7, 2024, 5-8 PM

See a documentary and experience a curator-led tour to go deeper with the work of Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Parol-inspired Collages

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create papercut pattern collages evoking concepts of hope, goodwill, blessings, and luck during the holiday season.

Workshops

Parol Lantern Workshop

Presented by SOMA Pilipinas

Sunday, November 3, 2024, 12-4 PM

Learn how to make your own parol lantern with materials and instruction provided by SOMA Pilipinas.

Workshops

Parol Lantern Workshop

Presented by SOMA Pilipinas

Saturday, November 2, 2024, 12-4 PM

Learn how to make your own parol lantern with materials and instruction provided by SOMA Pilipinas.

Workshops

Free Art Workshops: Watercolor Landscape Paintings

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, October 30, 2024, 2–4 PM

Discover the expressive nature of watercolor and create your own landscape paintings.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Abstract Collages

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, October 23, 2024, 2–4 PM

Find inspiration from everyday materials such as magazines and decorative paper, to build a new, abstract world through the process of collage.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Mythical Animal Sculptures

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, October 16, 2024, 2–4 PM

Unleash your imagination and make your own mythical animal sculptures. Transform your animal inspiration into a three-dimensional, colorful sculpture using air-dry clay.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Family & Friends Story Zines

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create a colorful zine featuring your family or friends. Include stories and special memories, while incorporating drawings and symbols to emphasize your personal narrative.

Exhibitions

Nicky Nodjoumi & Nahid Hagigat

October 6, 2024–March 23, 2025

The exhibitions tell the story of a family of artists shaped by revolution. 

Public Programs

Celebration for Nicky Nodjoumi: The Personal is Political & Nahid Hagigat: Etched in Time

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, October 6, 2024, 11 AM–5 PM

Our galleries will be open from 11am to 5pm, with programming throughout the day.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Statement Posters

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, October 2, 2024, 2–4 PM

Spark your creative expression by designing personal statement posters. Enhance your statement by adding design elements, such as lines, shapes, color, pattern and/or symbolic imagery.

Public Art

When We Weave Waves

Michael Arcega

2024–2025

Patterns from Philippine textiles are cut from transparent vinyl and layered on YBCA’s glass passageway along Mission Street.

Public Art

Woman, Life, Freedom

Taravat Talepasand

2024–2025

In recognition of this movement to recognize women’s rights, Iranian-American artist Taravat Talepasand developed this neon sculpture, featuring the phrase in both English and Farsi.

Performances

Fall Season 2024

Presented by Alonzo King LINES Ballet

September 26–29, 2024

This season honors legendary spiritual leader, composer, pianist, and harpist Alice Coltrane and the imaginative storytelling of composer Maurice Ravel through Alonzo King’s choreography.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Mythological Pop-up Book

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, September 25, 2024, 2–4 PM

Incorporate shapes and colors, and draw from your imagination to create a mythological pop up book.

Public Programs

Reparations Summit for Creative, Cultural, and Intellectual Life: Part 1

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, September 22, 2024, 10 AM–2 PM

A unique platform for artists to voice their needs and contribute to the shaping of reparations policies, fostering a more equitable future for the artistic community in San Francisco.

Public Programs

The Remedy is Solidarity: A Global Multimedia Anthology on Reparations, Volume 1.1: Too Much Like Right

Presented by YBCA & Zeal

Saturday, September 21, 2024, 2–4 PM

A premiere of Too Much Like Right Now, an experimental video artwork created by Sajjad Musa and co-produced by San Francisco natives Auttrianna Ward and Malik Seneferu.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Text Paper Weavings

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 2–4 PM

Carry on the tradition of storytelling through weaving by learning to weave with paper and personal writings.

Public Programs

Art, Action, Change: Weekend Programs

Presented by YBCA

September 14–15, 2024

A weekend of dynamic performances and participatory programs.

Public Programs

The American Heiress: Revelations

Friday, September 13, 2024, 6–8 PM

A historical performance based in personal narrative by Creative Corps Artist Kristian Stovall.

Films

Love Letter to the Tenderloin

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, September 12, 2024, 6–8:30 PM

A screening of two documentary films about the Tenderloin.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Watercolor Dedication Cards

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, September 11, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create watercolor cards and dedicate them to someone you’d like to honor.

Public Programs

Art, Action, Change: Weekend Programs

Presented by YBCA

September 7–8, 2024

A weekend of dynamic performances and participatory programs.

Performances

Let Her Sing 2024: A Celebration of Female Voices

Presented by Diaspora Arts Connection

Friday, September 6, 2024, 7:30 PM

An evening of exciting music and solidarity for the female voice.

Public Programs

Downtown First Thursday: Art, Action, Change

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, September 5, 2024, 5–10:30 PM

Open mic, salsa dancing, DJ sets, live performances and more!

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Luminous Seascape Collage

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, September 4, 2024, 2–4 PM

Using a variety of paper materials, weave your story.

Public Programs

Art, Action, Change: Weekend Programs

Presented by YBCA

Saturday, August 31, 2024, 1–5 PM

A weekend of dynamic performances and participatory programs.

Public Programs

Life After Corrections: Using the Arts as a Tool for Starting Again

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, August 29, 5:30–7:30 PM

Creative Corps member and formerly incarcerated artist, Rahsaan Thomas, will present learning from the Art Expo at San Quentin and lead a panel of individuals championing the creative works of those looking for a second chance at life through the arts.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Lotus Flower Origami

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, August 28, 2024, 2–4pm

Make your own version of the lotus flower with paper origami.

Public Programs

History and Genealogy of African Americans in San Francisco

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, August 22, 2024, 6–8 PM

A documentary screening of Blood Seeks Blood, a film by Tarika Lewis followed by a presentation of the Narrative Quilt Project by William Rhodes.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Paper Parasol

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 2–4pm

Inspired by Nick Dong’s Auspicious 88 – Parasol of Luck & Prosperity, make your own parasols in paper.

Public Programs

Art, Action, Change: Weekend Programs

Presented by YBCA

August 17–18, 2024

Join us for a weekend of dynamic performances and participatory programs,

Theater

The Pirates of Penzance

Presented by Lamplighters Music Theatre

August 17–18, 2024

Directed by Bay Area favorite Michael Mohammed, this comic jewel is packed full of sentimental pirates, hopeless policemen, and over-the-top adventures.

Exhibitions

Art, Action, Change: YBCA Creative Corps Initiative

August 16–September 15, 2024

Discover the intersection of art, action, and community empowerment.

Public Programs

Opening Night Reception: Art, Action, Change

Presented by YBCA

August 16, 2024, 5–8pm

+ Read more

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Zentangle Drawings

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, August 14, 2024, 2–4pm

Create improvisational Zentangle drawings inspired by the exhibition Nick Dong: 11 to 88.

Public Programs

Community Public Art & Artist Tour

Presented by YBCA

Saturday, August 10, 2024, 2-3:30pm

Join us for the celebration and unveiling of Community Public Art.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Textured Clay Tiles

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, August 7, 2024, 2–4pm

Create clay tiles to remember ancestors and loved ones.

Public Programs

Downtown First Thursday – Nick Dong: 11 to 88

Presented by YBCA

August 1, 2024, 5-9 PM

Enjoy a cash bar and see the exhibition during its final month.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Paper Lanterns

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, July 31, 2024, 2–4pm

Create your own paper lantern as a message to loved ones and ancestors.

Public Programs

Nick Dong: Mendsmith Project

Presented by YBCA

July 29–August 18, 2024

Nick Dong uses his jewelers’ skills bring two meaningful pieces of jewelry or personal items to be “mended” into a new commemoration.

Public Programs

Nick Dong: 11 to 88 Curator-led Tour & Artist-led Meditation

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, July 28, 2024, 1 PM

Our curator-led tour provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the exhibition while the meditation offers new layers of spirituality and introspection to Dong’s immersive works.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Reflective Mosaic Collages

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, July 24, 2024, 2–4pm

+ Read more

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Self-Reflection Dioramas

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, July 17, 2024, 2-4pm

+ Read more

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Papercut Patterns

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, July 10, 2024, 2-4pm

+ Read more

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Wire Sculptures

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, July 3, 2024, 2–4 PM

+ Read more

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Beaded Bracelets

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, June 26, 2024, 2–4 PM

Make your own beaded bracelets, inspired by Nick Dong’s Mendsmith project.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Sequins Sewing

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, June 12, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create your own reflective patterns by using glue or basic sewing techniques to attach sequins to fabric.

Exhibitions

Nick Dong: 11 to 88

June 6–August 25, 2024

A distinctive world of levitating symbols, illuminated rooms, and cyclical transformations.

Public Programs

Downtown First Thursday – Nick Dong: 11 to 88

Presented by YBCA

June 6, 2024, 5–9 PM

Get the first look at Nick Dong’s immersive installations and mesmerizing objects.

Workshops

Free Art Workshop: Flower Drawings

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, June 5, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create your own flower drawings using graphite and metallic pigmented watercolors.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Mythological Pop-up Book

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, May 29, 2024, 2–4 PM

Draw from personal experience and/or history to create your own mythological pop up book, inspired by artist Masako Miki.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Weaving Tales

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, May 22, 2024, 2–4 PM

Participants will learn to weave with paper, inspired by artist Indira Allegra’s work TEXERE.

Dance

Spring Festival 2024

Presented by San Francisco Ballet School

May 22–24, 2024

+ Read more

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Community-Dedicated Postcards

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 2–4 PM

Celebrate your community by creating special handmade cards to give to friends, family, and loved ones.

Workshops

pARTicipate: Memory Collage

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, May 8, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create a mixed-media collage that evokes your personal journey, inspired by artist Shirin Towfiq.

Public Art

TEXERE

Indira Allegra

October 6, 2023–May 5, 2024

An ongoing, interactive digital weaving presented as an outdoor installation visible after sunset.

Public Art

Revolution

Shirin Towfiq

October 6, 2023–May 5, 2024

A series of Persian rugs printed on gauzy fabric, hangs in YBCA’s Grand Lobby to offer a space for reflection and inspiration.

Public Programs

Goodwill Label Stories

Pop-up with artist Lynda Grose

Sunday, May 5, 2024, 2–5 PM

A dynamic conversation on second-hand clothing, sustainability and the fashion industry at this interactive pop-up event. Bring your own thrifted garment or browse a selection from Goodwill to take home.

Public Programs

Artist Conversation: What Worlds We Build

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, May 5, 2024, 12–2 PM

This conversation dives into artistic practices which transform histories, familial lineage, and materiality to speculate on alternative ways of living.

Public Art

The Chapel of Becoming

Leila Weefur

October 6, 2023–May 5, 2024

An invitation to enter the video installation and transcendental space dedicated to and in celebration of the Transgender community.

Public Programs

Trophy Room—Dispersal Sale!

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, May 5, 2024, 2–5 PM

As BAN9 draws to a close, everything must go from Michael Arcega’s installation Trophy Room. Join the artist at YBCA as he opens up shop.

Workshops

Sip & Sketch: José Figueroa

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, May 5, 2024, 2–5 PM

Grab your sketching tool of choice, your beverage of choice, and a seat for Sip & Sketch with BAN9 artist José Figueroa.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, May 2, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Dance

Dance Series 2

Presented by Smuin Contemporary Ballet

May 3–12, 2024

Featuring a world premiere by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa as well as pieces by Amy Seiwert, Brennan Wall and Michael Smuin.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Personal & Collective Ancestries

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 2–4 PM

Inspired by artist Charlene Tan, find meaning and inspiration from your personal background or experiences to create your own pattern.

Public Programs

Goodwill Label Stories

Pop-up with artist Lynda Grose

Sunday, April 28, 2023, 12–2 PM

A dynamic conversation on second-hand clothing, sustainability and the fashion industry at this interactive pop-up event. Bring your own thrifted garment or browse a selection from Goodwill to take home.

Public Programs

Trophy Room—Dispersal Sale!

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, April 28, 2024, 3–5 PM

As BAN9 draws to a close, everything must go from Michael Arcega’s installation Trophy Room. Join the artist at YBCA as he opens up shop.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, April 25, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Polymer Clay Netsuke

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 2–4pm

Create small polymer clay forms inspired by netsuke, a Japanese tradition of making ornate miniature sculptures used as fasteners on cords originating in the 17th century.

Events

BAN9: Health & Safety Day

Presented by YBCA

April 21, 2024, 11 AM–5 PM

To ensure equitable access for any immunocompromised or medically vulnerable community members, masks will be required for all gallery visitors.

Public Programs

Trophy Room—Dispersal Sale!

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, April 21, 2024, 3–5 PM

As BAN9 draws to a close, everything must go from Michael Arcega’s installation Trophy Room. Join the artist at YBCA as he opens up shop.

Tours

Accessibility Tour of Bay Area Now 9 

Presented by YBCA

Saturday, April 20, 2024, 12–2 PM

An artist and curator-led accessibility tour.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, April 18, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Cathedral Mounds

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, April 17, 2024, 2–4pm

Make own miniature cathedral mounds with air-dry clay.

Workshops

The Artist at Work: José Figueroa

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, April 14, 2024, 12–3 PM

Drop in on this artmaking session with BAN9 artist José Figueroa and try out his drawing process for yourself.

Performances

Christine’s Schedule C

Presented by YBCA

April 14, 2024, 3–5 PM

A performative lecture from self-described “financial exhibitionist” Christine Tien Wang.

Public Programs

Trophy Room—Dispersal Sale!

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, April 14, 2024, 1–5 PM

As BAN9 draws to a close, everything must go from Michael Arcega’s installation Trophy Room. Join the artist at YBCA as he opens up shop.

Events

BAN9: Health & Safety Day

Presented by YBCA

April 12, 2024, 11 AM–5 PM

To ensure equitable access for any immunocompromised or medically vulnerable community members, masks will be required for all gallery visitors.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, April 11, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Model Magic!

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, April 10, 2024, 2–4pm

Inspired by the yōkai (supernatural beings and spirits) of Japanese folklore, participants will make their own yōkai out of model magic.

Performances

Spring Season 2024

Presented by Alonzo King LINES Ballet

April 5–14, 2024

This season LINES Ballet presents a world premiere, a reimagining of The Collective Agreement, and 2013’s Concerto for Two Violins.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop: Embroidered Stories

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, April 3, 2024, 2–4pm

Tell your own story in textiles through basic stitches and fabric glue.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, March 28, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop with Blanca Estela Rodríguez: Trophy Room Dioramas

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, March 27, 2024, 2–4pm

Create a diorama filled with mini sculptures of everyday objects influenced by your own personal collection of items.

Dance

Dance Downtown

Presented by ODC/Dance

March 27–31, 2024

Dance Downtown invites the viewer on a visceral, thought-provoking journey and simply breathtaking dance.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, March 21, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop with Blanca Estela Rodríguez: Community-Dedicated Postcards

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, March 20, 2024, 2–4pm

Celebrate your community by creating special handmade cards to give to friends, family, and loved ones to commemorate a specific community event.

Public Programs

Goodwill Label Stories

Pop-up with artist Lynda Grose

Saturday, March 16, 2024, 1–4 PM

A dynamic conversation on second-hand clothing, sustainability and the fashion industry at this interactive pop-up event. Bring your own thrifted garment or browse a selection from Goodwill to take home.

Performances

Soy Yo/It’s Me

Presented by YBCA

Postponed

An intimate evening of performance, ceremony, food, and conversation led by BAN9 artist Arleene Correa Valencia.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop with Blanca Estela Rodríguez: Embroidered Stories

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, March 6, 2024, 2–4pm

Tell your own story in textiles through basic stitches and fabric glue.

Performances

Celebrating Michael Smuin

Presented by Smuin Contemporary Ballet

February 29–March 3, 2024

Join us for these special performances celebrating founder, Michael Smuin.

Performances

RUDDYGORE, or, The Bruja’s Curse

Presented by Lamplighters Music Theatre

February 24–25, 2024

+ Read more

Dance

Sorry I Missed Your Show: Whale Fall

Presented by YBCA & Fresh Festival

CANCELLED

Watch a recording of the experimental dance film Whale Fall by mayfield brooks, then hear brooks reflect on the piece and their multidisciplinary practice.

Films

from within a great silence

Expanded Cinema Screening presented by YBCA

CANCELLED

An afternoon of expanded cinema in this performance featuring a multi-projector film screening with live narration from artist tamara suarez porras.

Dance

Fresh Festival: To Be Unseen

Presented by Fresh Festival & YBCA

CANCELLED

Experience dynamic, site-specific performances inside the YBCA galleries from 3 movement artists whose works subvert, disrupt, and respond to the tokenizing identity politics forced onto Black creatives by art institutions.

Festival

Love Letter to SOMA

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, February 15, 2024, 4–9 PM

Convene, create, contemplate, and celebrate this Third Thursday festival that brings together a selection of artists to share one-night-only special experiences.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, February 15, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop with Blanca Estela Rodríguez: Portrait Cards

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, February 14, 2024, 2–4 PM

Create a hand-drawn portrait of someone you’d like to celebrate—a friend, family, loved one, or yourself.

Workshops

The Artist at Work: José Figueroa

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, February 11, 2024, 12-3 PM

Drop in on this artmaking session with BAN9 artist José Figueroa and try out his drawing process for yourself.

Workshops

Papermaking Workshop with Trina Michelle Robinson

Presented by YBCA

Saturday, February 10, 2024, 1–4 PM

Led by BAN9 artist Trina Michelle Robinson, students will follow a step-by-step process to create their own handmade paper.

Dance

Sorry I Missed Your Show: Tonic

Presented by YBCA & Fresh Festival

Saturday, February 10, 2024, 3:30–5 PM

Watch a recording of experimental dance work Tonic created by Kathleen Hermesdorf and Albert Mathias, followed by a panel conversation featuring Mathias and others who worked closely with Hermesdorf.

Workshops

Zine-Making on the Mobile Studio

Presented by YBCA

Saturday, February 10, 2024, 12–3 PM

Create your own zine in these drop-in workshops using a Mobile Zine-Making Studio designed by Artivate artists Chris Treggiari and Amy Berk.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, February 8, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Workshops

pARTicipate Workshop with Blanca Estela Rodríguez: Personal Story Prints

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, February 7, 2024, 2–4 PM

Experiment with Trina Michelle Robinson’s intaglio works on handmade paper.

Public Programs

By Way of Revolution

Artist-led Workshop

Saturday, February 3, 2024, 11 AM–3 PM

Investigate how histories of protest inform our present day moment and the powerful yet often overlooked role that BIPOC women (both cis and trans) play, in this performance art workshop led by artist Helina Metaferia.

Public Programs

Exploring Leymusoom Garden

Conversation, performance, and screening presented by YBCA

Saturday, February 3, 2024, 1–4 PM

Explore BAN9 artist Heesoo Kwon’s Leymusoom Garden through traditional Korean games and performance, a conversation with Kwon and her multidisciplinary collaborators, and a screening of Kwon’s most recent video work.

Films

Color in Twelve Parts

Bay Area Now 9 Looping Film Program

February 1–29, 2024, 11 AM–5 PM

A series of 12 monochromatic films that pull colors from all parts of life and bring them to you, one color at a time.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 31, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Public Programs

pARTicipate workshop with ChiChai Mateo: Watercolor Painting

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 31, 2024, 2–4 PM

Participants will learn basic watercolor techniques in order to create their own collage-like map.
This workshop is inspired by BAN9 artist Connie Zheng.

Public Programs

Goodwill Label Stories

Pop-up with artist Lynda Grose

Sunday, January 28, 2024, 12–2 PM

A dynamic conversation on second-hand clothing, sustainability and the fashion industry at this interactive pop-up event. Bring your own thrifted garment or browse a selection from Goodwill to take home.

Public Programs

Cueca Dance Class

Dance class in partnership with the International Museum of Dance

Sunday, January 28, 2024, 1–2 PM

Join instructor Isidro Fajardo to learn cueca, the national dance of Bolivia.

Public Programs

Poets’ Lunch

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, January 25, 2024, 12–2 PM

Listen to a poetry reading, enjoy a catered lunch, and experience cultural offerings from Indigenous poets, scholars and activists.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 24, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Public Programs

pARTicipate workshop with ChiChai Mateo: Patterns of Home Printmaking 

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 24, 2024, 2–4 PM

In this workshop, we will find inspiration from our own homes—is it the design from our favorite plate? A flannel a loved one always wears? A certain flower that grows in our neighborhood? We will create our own symbolism to design our own patterned stamps for printmaking artwork. This workshop is inspired by BAN9 artist Golbanou Moghaddas

Public Programs

Midnight Mass: Live Podcast Recording

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, January 18, 2024, 7–9 PM

Experience a special live presentation of the acclaimed Midnight Mass podcast, as co-hosts Peaches Christ and Michael Varrati explore the Bay Area’s rich connection to the world of cult films.

Public Programs

Sip & Sketch: José Figueroa

Presented by YBCA

Thursday, January 18, 2024, 5:30–8 PM

Grab your sketching tool of choice, your beverage of choice, and a seat for Sip & Sketch with BAN9 artist José Figueroa.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Public Programs

pARTicipate workshop with ChiChai Mateo: Model Magic!

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 17, 2024, 2–4 PM

Inspired by the yōkai (supernatural beings and spirits) of Japanese folklore, participants will make their own yōkai out of model magic. This workshop is inspired by the work of BAN9 artist Masako Miki

Workshops

The Artist at Work: José Figueroa

Presented by YBCA

Sunday, January 14, 2024, 12–3 PM

Drop in on this artmaking session with BAN9 artist José Figueroa and try out his drawing process for yourself.

Films

California Newsreel – Forward to the 6th Decade

Presented by YBCA

Saturday, January 13, 2024, 3–5 PM

Experience a selection of films from the past 20 years advancing the causes of health and social justice, led by outgoing co-director Cornelius Moore and incoming executive director Rachel Poulain of California Newsreel.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Public Programs

pARTicipate workshop with ChiChai Mateo: Hanging Mobiles

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 2–4 PM

Use familiar and common home objects in new and imaginative ways as you create a hanging mobile. This workshop is inspired by BAN9 artist Nicole Shaffer’s installations.

Public Art

What is Legacy Without Liberation?

Malaya Tuyay

2024–Ongoing

This mural is an altar offered to the SoMa community that invites passerby to honor their loved ones who have passed while commemorating community stories.

Workshops

Art + Asana: Free Yoga Class

Presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 3, 2024, 4–5 PM

A free yoga class where you can find your flow while immersed in the art of our ongoing exhibition Bay Area Now 9.

Public Programs

pARTicipate workshop with ChiChai Mateo: Mixed Media Cards

Workshops presented by YBCA

Wednesday, January 3, 2024, 2–4 PM

Experiment with color and texture by using foil, cardboard and an explosion of color to create a rectangular card. Inspired by BAN9 artist Craig Calderwood.

Films

fragments: films by Emily Chao

Bay Area Now 9 Looping Film Program

January 3–31, 2023, 11 AM-5 PM

A cycle of four films from filmmaker Emily Chao that offer fragments of memories of people and places, experiences both shared and private, and new considerations of familiar views.

Public Art

Ceasefire Now!

Jeffrey Cheung

2024–2025

A public artwork meant to inspire a sense of communal solidarity.

Tours

Curator-Led Tour of Bay Area Now 9

Second Sundays, October 8, 2023–May 5, 2023, 12-1 PM

A free curator-led tour to learn more about the exhibition, background of key pieces, insider details, and more.

Public Programs

Dance Workshops for Every Body

In partnership with the International Museum of Dance

October 2023–January 2024

+ Read more

Public Art

Hyakki Yagho, Night Parade of One Hundred Demons – One Million Years of Journey with Ruby Red Fox and Their Company

Masako Miki

2023–2025

This work takes inspiration from Japanese folklore and asks viewers to pause and reflect on the provocative narrative and their connection to it.

Public Art

UNDO MEN

Sanctuary City Project

2023–2024

This work shines light on the power of the student-led pro-immigrant movement while examining the impact of policies on the lives of the undocumented community.

Public Art

Peace in the Middle East

Taravat Talepasand

2022-2025

This work refers to the translation of the word “peace” in Farsi “صلح” sculpted with neon.

Public Art

Let’s Build from Here

Innosanto Nagara

2022-2025

A site-specific public artwork highlighting the power of collaborative future-building.

Public Art

love @ first line

Anna Sergeeva

2021–2025

A new site-specific public artwork by Anna Sergeeva featuring the first lines of love poems.

Public Art

Statement marquee from Escuela de Arte Útil (School of Useful Art)

Tania Bruguera

2017–2025

YBCA continues to activate the marquee with timely and responsive messages generated from artists and community partners.