SOMArts San Francisco

SOMArts is a perfect example of what I enjoy about San Francisco. It's an old warehouse down by the freeway that on the inside is a hotspot for local art and music. My first introduction to SOMArts was attending an event my guitar teacher had put on. It featured avant-garde musicians displaying homemade DIY instruments. Complete with a "Jell-o-Tron," literally musical Jell-o, it was the most outlandish yet inspiring event I've been to.

SOMArts is that kind of place. There's always someone pushing the boundaries. This isn't the kind of place to go see pop music or mainstream art. A trip to SOMArts is accepting that you may in fact see or hear something you don't like. But that's why it's art, in its true form. These are artists that aren't trying to please; they're trying to express, which is what makes it such a genuine place. They advertise themselves as "incubating creativity to change the world". 

The events vary widely from day to day, so check out the program for information on what's going on. Parking in the area is a little tough, but they do have a small lot for those that arrive early. For those willing to get more involved, they also offer various classes and opportunities to get involved in the artistic community.