Since its founding, the San Francisco Art Institute has championed contemporary art as well as the education of artists and has held a central position at the forefront of advanced and experimental visual arts. Student life at the Art Institute includes direct access to exhibitions, lectures, symposia, films and other special events held on campus. These activities are an integral part of student life and engage students in the larger community of art, artists and contemporary ideas.

The Walter and McBean Galleries present a program of exhibitions highlighting innovative work by emerging artists and experimental work by more established artists from throughout the United States and abroad.