Here in San Francisco we're lucky to have art exhibits around just about every corner. And nature lovers won't want to miss these three exhibits open to the public now.
California's Wild Edge: Tom Killion
Now through July 5, San Francisco Main Public Library, Jewett Gallery
California's Wild Edge, Tom Killion
Tom Killion was born on the slopes of Mount Tamalpais and – inpsired by Marin County and Northern California rugged terrain – began creating landscape prints with Japanese influences using linoleum and wood. This admission-free exhibit examines California's coast from Mendocino, Point Reyes, the San Francisco Bay down to Carmel, Big Sur and Santa Barbara, pairing these striking sights with prose from local poets.
Stop by from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 23, to meet the artist and poets. More details here.
Exquisite Nature
Now through November 1, Asian Art Museum
River Pavilion, Mountain Colors (detail), 1368, by Ni Zan (Chinese, 1301–1374). Ink on paper. On Loan from the Collection of The Tang Family, R1989.99. Image © Asian Art Museum, San Francisco.
Just across the street at the San Francisco Asian Art Museum you'll find rarely-seen masterpieces from some of China’s most influential painters from the 14th–18th centuries. Geographic locations vary and subjects include landscapes, flowers and birds, country living and historical stories, but all of the pieces focus on "humankind’s celebration of the natural world."
Thanks to a partnership with Target, admission is free every first Sunday of the month.
Ernest Clayton Wildflower Images
Now through August 31, Helen Crocker Russell Library of Horticulture
The San Francisco Botanical Gardens celebrated 75 years this spring. With mid-century botanical prints by Marin County artist Ernest Clayton on display, there's no better time to stop by the Library of Horticulture within the Botanical Gardens. Clayton painted nearly 200 watercolors of the California native plants he observed while strolling through Marin between 1938 to 1952, and the exhibit is curated by his granddaughters, who often accompanied him on his walks.
The Helen Crocker Russell Library of Horticulture is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except Tuesdays, and free of charge, but you will need to pay to enter the Botanical Gardens – unless you stop by on the first Tuesday of the month.