International Art Museum of America is one of San Francisco’s most popular museums. Known as IAMA, this place is a non-profit museum that showcases thousands of art pieces from all over the world. Their exhibitions display works that have had a significant impact on the history of civilization, so you can expect world-class art here. What’s more, aside from housing top-notch exhibitions, the museum also offers up it’s stunning spaces for a series of events including enchanting Candlelight concerts.
As it’s located in the South of Market neighborhood, getting to IAMA is easy. If you’re on the subway, leave at Muni Metro, exit at the UN Plaza and walk about one block to arrive.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about International Art Museum of America
1. IAMA really pick and choose their artwork
Many budding artists dream of having their artwork displayed at IAMA. However, actually getting the museum to include art in their exhibitions is super difficult. For an artist’s work to be showcased in the museum, it has to be worth $200,000 per square foot or more.
2. There’s an abundance of Chinese artwork here
International Art Museum of America holds some some of the most famous works by Chinese artists from 1600 AD onwards. In fact, IAMA is the museum with one of the biggest collections of Chinese paintings in the US. There’s art by Ren Bonian, Yun Shouping and even Wu Changshuo – a renowned painter celebrated as one of the “Four Great Painters of the Shanghai School in the Late Qing Dynasty.”
3. You can see art as soon as you step foot inside
At the entrance of the museum, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful garden installation kitted out with a waterfall, rock formations, a serene mini pond and more. To keep the small installation aligned with the artistic flare of the venue, there’s also a pagoda-roofed gazebo and a tree house sculpture designed by renowned artist Steve Blanchard.
Candlelight concerts at International Art Museum of America
This season, IAMA is hosting a series of unforgettable Candlelight concerts. Remarkable tributes to contemporary stars such as Adele, Coldplay and Metallica and classical music legends including Schubert are illuminating this San Francisco landmark. Additionally, you can relive your favorite on-screen moments at a dazzling Hans Zimmer or Joe Hisaishi tribute. Whether you prefer the soothing sounds of classical melodies or stunning renditions of your favorite modern tunes, Candlelight is sure to have a concert for you.
What else can you do at International Art Museum of America?
Aside from Candlelight concerts, the International Art Museum of America also hosts a myriad of permanent and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. Expect to see sculptures, calligraphy, paintings, tiles and more from all over the world. Most of the artwork on display is by Asian artists, and they’re open Tuesday through to Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
This season, there are many magnificent venues across San Francisco that are hosting these unforgettable Candlelight concerts. From Chabot Space and Science Center to St. Ignatius Church, these SF locations provide the gorgeous spaces for these magical evenings of soothing music and the warm glow of candlelight.