San Francisco has such a thriving artistic community, one of the richest in the Nation.
The last time I was in the city by the bay, there were a number of cultural events to take in.
If you're new to Frisco, though, it may be wise to consider a few smart ways to get oriented with the sights and sounds right off-the-bat.
For example, why not take a walking tour?
Henry George (a self-described philosopher) will take you on an informative stroll, sure to unveil the unique architecture of the city and the rich history behind it.
Tour info: 415.970.9306
Meanwhile - an exhibition of sculpture by Louise Nevelson at the de Young Museum - knocked me out!
The exhibit captured the life and work of Nevelson (Architect of Shadows) who was a leading figure in postwar American Art circles.
In fact, the artist's imaginative insightful pieces have been hailed by critics and art-lovers alike.
Autobiographical in nature, the sculptures symbolically address issues such as marriage, motherhood, death, and the Jewish culture.
Exhibitions: deyoungmusuem.org
An intriguing installation by Katsushige Nakahashi - "Depth of Memory" - provoked a lot of thought, too.
The main piece, which was commissioned by the SF Camerawork Gallery, was titled "Kaiten".
Essentially, it was a World War II torpedo that stretched forty-eight feet and three feet around.
In essence, the novel conceptual piece was fashioned to be a receptacle for memories viewers chose to slip into its flattened shape at the gallery.
Yes, it was a tantalizing interactive piece of art.
Chuck Mobay, co-curator of the exhibition space, elaborated.
"It's not a dead replica at all, but it does have physicality. It's very tactile."
The second piece on display was a shimmering wall of photographs of a ship.
To accomplish the creation, Katsushige Nakahashi spent a day taking pictures of the deck of the famous World War II warship, where the Japanese surrender was signed on the 65th anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor in 2006.
After the show closed, the artist torched the piece!
But was it art?
Info: sfcamerawork.org
At the "Legion of Honor" a speciallly-installed exhibit was designed to take a psychological glimpse into the thoughts (and social conscience) of Marie-Antoinette.
To achieve this goal, the curators brilliantly revealed the truths that surrounded Marie's life through the contents of her private residence (Petit Trianon) with the ultimate aim of dispelling the myths.
By throwing a spotlight on the Royal Beauty's obsessions - and her addictive supreme style - the public was afforded the opportunity to take a glimpse into a life of excess that allegedly sparked a revolution.
The exquisite exhibit was fascinating.
Exhibitions: legionofhonor.org
If you're in the mood for taking a quick jaunt out of the downtown core for a cultural experience, zip over to the Nomad Cafe in Oakland, where there are many private installations on-going throughout the year that are sure to inspire.
Info: nomadcafe.net
