Maria Jenson

At SOMArts Cultural Center, I work closely with the Board of Directors and staff, implementing a range of events, exhibitions, performances, and educational programs centered on inclusion, diversity, and free expression. I also focus a good deal of attention on external relations with the San Francisco Art Commission, the SF Board of Supervisors, the mayor’s office, and a large array of cultural organizations in the region. With partners, we have worked locally towards the passage of Prop S, and nationally for the continuing survival of the NEA.

Prior to SOMArts I worked at San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) as a key member of the External Relations team during the museum’s major expansion and rebranding. A memory that I especially treasure was the transfer of the massive Richard Serra sculpture Sequence from the Cantor Arts Center at Stanford to SFMOMA. With the Boston Consultancy Group, I created an Economic and Cultural Impact Report to frame the museum’s performance more broadly than a typical annual report.

My professional experience in the visual arts started in Los Angeles where I launched Salon Oblique, a well-regarded art salon/gallery, followed by three years as the founding director of ArtPadSF, an independent art fair, together with entrepreneur Chip Conley. Salon Oblique and ArtPadSF featured broad programming including music, performance, dance, and film screenings, in addition to visual art. Prior to Salon Oblique I wrote, produced and directed two well-received plays in LA, and taught acting to a select group. I also studied dance for many years, focusing on ballet, jazz, flamenco, and modern dance. With my husband, I worked on several documentary films with noted psychologist and writer James Hillman.

I regularly participate on panels and industry summits where I enjoy sharing ideas and socializing with peers in the arts. The arts are my lifelong passion and joy. Since relocating to the Bay Area, I’ve been fortunate to work with the regional community of deeply engaged arts professionals and cultural leaders. I’m committed to this work.