de Young Museum

I think the SFMOMA is better. A strong start for a 4-star review, but I mean it. I may have a bias towards modern art, but I prefer art that makes me think. While the deYoung has small sections on recent and contemporary works, most halls are lined with classical portraits, old furniture, and ancient artifacts. Therefore, the deYoung Museum feels like a history museum rather than an art one, with many sections categorized by eras and time periods instead of artist or genre. While both the deYoung and the SFMOMA have beautiful buildings, the SFMOMA is less dated, better maintained, and offers a lot more art. With that out of the way, the deYoung is still an exquisite museum. The African exhibit was my favorite. The items displayed here feel so otherworldly, with exaggerated features and unconventional forms. And yet, they are undeniably human, preserved and presented so nicely in this quiet, dimly-lit room. Honorable mentions are A Particular Kind of Heaven by Edward Ruscha and Petunias by Georgia O’Keeffe. I have a few positive comments to add. One thing I find admirable is the deYoung’s ability to keep their artworks in their ‘natural’ states, framing and setting them up in certain ways, or even going as far as to keep them open to the air. That’s a little dangerous in my opinion, but also something I respect. Additionally, the employees are extremely sweet and helpful, and youth admission is 100% free! Now for a few genuine criticisms. First, organization. Besides the temporary and special exhibitions, the theme is lost in a lot of these galleries. Some collections of art may be from the same time period, but have little if any correlation between one another, which takes the visitor out of the viewing experience. Second, minimal information. A lot of works and selections need explanations or further analyses. There was even one artwork that seemed to be missing a plaque. Third, a lack of interactive activities. They have art carts for sketching on Saturdays, but that’s about it. I know it’s an art museum, not a playground, but the deYoung could benefit from something more interactive, even if it’s as simple as a permanent corner where guests can get creative. SFMOMA has a number of those. Overall, not my favorite art museum in the city, but still a must-visit! 4/5.