The Artsy Guide to FOG Design+Art
This January, over 30 leading modern and contemporary art and design galleries convene for San Francisco’s modernism event of the season, the inaugural edition the FOG Design+Art Fair. Benefitting San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the fair promises a prominent selection of fine art and design objects, representing major movements from the early 20th century to the present.
When? Where? How?
The fair takes place Jan. 17–19, on San Francisco’s waterfront at the Fort Mason Center Festival Pavilion (2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco, CA). Tickets for unlimited admission may be purchased in advance for $15, here, or at the fair for $20.
Why Visit?
Located in an established center for innovation in art and design, FOG Design+Art brings together current trends in art and design, within the time frame known as modernism. A unique opportunity to visit, given its debut and the large number of local exhibitors, the fair gathers an intimate group of galleries and dealers in a dynamic layout.
What Will I See?
Visitors to the fair can expect to find prime examples of historic and contemporary design, a range of fine art and photography, and high-end artisanal objects, all of which were created from the beginning of the 20th century to today. Find the full list of exhibitors, here.
A Partnership with SFMOMA
Currently in a nomadic state due to the museum building’s major expansion project, designed by Snøhetta, SFMOMA will benefit from FOG’s preview gala and a portion of proceeds from the fair, to support their education and On the Go programming.
Pop into 21POP
21POP, the brainchild of acclaimed designer Stanlee Gatti, will be a highlight of the fair. With the theme “In the Kitchen”, the pop-up shop will explore intersections between design and culinary arts. Gatti has curated a dynamic installation featuring new pasta creations by San Francisco restaurateurs Michael and Lindsay Tusk, along with a selection of complementary design objects.
Preview the Fair at a Festive Gala
On Thursday, Jan. 16, art and design enthusiasts and benefactors gather for an evening of cuisine, bespoke cocktails, and live entertainment, in addition to a preview of the fair. With all proceeds going to SFMOMA’s education and On-The-Go programming, the gala honors former Board Chair Elaine McKeon, who was an instrumental force in the event and a long-standing supporter of the museum’s Architecture and Design department. Tickets, which begin at $150, can be purchased here.
A Leading Lineup of Talks
FOG offers an impressive lineup of top designers, artists, and industry insiders who will share their views and insights in a series of lectures and panel discussions. Highlights include:
“A Conversation with Ron Arad”: London-based designer and architect Ron Arad with Associate Curator of Architecture and Design at SFMOMA, Jennifer Fletcher. Saturday, January 18, 1pm.
“Architecture of Engagement and the new SFMOMA Expansion”: Led by Craig Dykers, Principal Architect of Snøhetta. Saturday, January 18, 3pm.
Watch Jürg Lehni’s Hektor in Action
Three times per day, visitors to FOG will be treated to dynamic demonstrations of Jürg Lehni’s Hektor, a portable device designed by the artist to create spray paint compositions with computer software.
Stop by for Student Sunday
Sunday, January 19, is Student Sunday. To honor the city’s top-tier array of art and design schools and their talented students, the fair’s final day will focus on works from young, emerging artists, and will include educational programming.
