Artists Gallery FAQ

About the Gallery

Rentals and Sales

For Artists

Does the gallery sell posters?

No, the gallery carries original artwork only. Posters representing works in the SFMOMA collection may be purchased at the MuseumStore.

Is the gallery open every day?

The Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. We are closed on the following dates:

  • New Year's Day
  • Fourth of July
  • Thanksgiving weekend
  • Christmas week

Can I photograph artworks in the gallery?

You are welcome to photograph works you are considering for rent or purchase. We can also provide you with images we have on file.

Do I need to be a member of SFMOMA to rent from the Artists Gallery?

No.

What is required in order to rent?

All clients must present confirmation of their current address (such as a valid driver's license or California ID) as well as a major credit card. (We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express.) This information is kept on file in a secure location.

How long is a rental period?

Artworks can be rented for a term of either two or three months. The rental period can be renewed twice.

Is there anything I should bring with me to help with the selection process?

It can be very helpful to bring measurements of your walls, photographs of the space where the work will be installed, floor plans, and/or examples of artists whose work you like.

Can I rent something from the current exhibition?

Yes, but artworks must remain at the gallery until the exhibition ends.

Can I rent art from the SFMOMA collection?

No. Our inventory is separate from the museum's collection, and the works in the SFMOMA collection are not available for rent.

Can I take a piece home and try it out before renting it?

No. If you are uncertain about whether a piece will work for you, we would be happy to hold it for 24 hours. Sometimes it's helpful to take home a photograph of the piece, and think about it overnight. Bring a digital camera or camera phone to the gallery so you can take pictures of the works you're considering.

Do you offer insurance for the art during the rental period?

No. Most people have adequate coverage on their Homeowner's or Renter's policies. It is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider to make sure you are covered. If you aren't covered, ask them about adding a rider to your policy.

Can the rental be prorated if I only need an artwork for a few days?

No. Two months is the minimum rental period. You may return works early, but the rental fee will not be prorated or refunded.

How do I get the artwork to my home or office?

You are welcome to transport artworks yourself if you can do so safely. The gallery also offers delivery and installation services throughout the greater Bay Area. Our installer is available on weekdays and Saturdays to bring works to your home or office. Please contact the gallery for delivery and installation service rates and availability.

If I buy a piece I'm renting, will I receive a discount off the purchase price?

Yes. Half of the rental fees you've paid for up to two rental periods will be deducted from the purchase price.

Are prices negotiable?

No.

I own a work of art. Can I offer it for rent through the Artists Gallery?

No. Our inventory is limited to works by artists we represent.

Will you appraise an artwork for me?

We do not offer appraisal services.

Do you offer framing services?

No. All artworks in our inventory come framed or ready to hang.

I'm an artist. How do I get my work into the Artists Gallery?

The gallery reviews artists' portfolios once a year. Please see Submit Your Work for more details.

What percentage of the rental and sales fees goes to the artists?

The artists receive 50% of rental fees and 60% of sales fees.