The Contemporary Jewish Museum (CJM) is situated in the South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood of San Francisco, California. This non-collecting museum is located at 736 Mission Street at Yerba Buena Lane. It is a unique institution that does not maintain a permanent collection, but instead curates and hosts a broad array of exhibitions each year in collaboration with other institutions.
The mission of the Contemporary Jewish Museum is to make the diversity of the Jewish experience relevant for a twenty-first century audience. This is achieved through a variety of exhibitions and educational programs. The museum's education programs include public tours, classes and workshops, film screenings, lectures and gallery talks, performances, teacher training, school visits, family tours and art making, and a teen internship program.
The main building of the Contemporary Jewish Museum is the former Pacific Gas & Electric Jessie Street Substation. This historic building was originally constructed in 1881 and was rebuilt in 1907 by Willis Polk following the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. The building's unique architecture and history add to the museum's charm and appeal.
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736 Mission StreetSan Francisco, San Francisco
No exhibitions in The Contemporary Jewish Museum have been found.
The Contemporary Jewish Museum has 1 rating.
The Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco offers a thought-provoking experience that explores Jewish culture, history, and art through a modern lens. Visitors often praise the museum's striking architecture, which blends a historic power station with contemporary design elements. The exhibitions are frequently rotated, providing fresh perspectives on Jewish heritage and its relevance to current social issues.
Many reviewers appreciate the diverse range of exhibits, which can include everything from traditional artifacts to interactive installations and contemporary artworks. The museum's commitment to presenting both historical content and contemporary Jewish experiences is widely commended. Some visitors note that the exhibitions can be intellectually stimulating and emotionally moving, encouraging reflection and discussion.
The museum's educational programs and events receive positive feedback, with many guests highlighting the informative guided tours and engaging workshops. The staff is generally described as knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
However, some visitors mention that the museum is relatively small compared to other major institutions in San Francisco, and occasionally find the admission price a bit high for the size. A few reviewers also note that certain exhibits may not appeal to all audiences, particularly younger children or those seeking a more traditional museum experience.
Despite these minor criticisms, The Contemporary Jewish Museum is generally well-regarded for its innovative approach to cultural preservation and education. It successfully bridges the gap between historical significance and contemporary relevance, making it a valuable addition to San Francisco's cultural landscape.
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