The Real-Life Art History of M. Louise Stanley
September 19, 2026–January 24, 2027
M. Louise Stanley stands a bit apart from other Bay Area Figurative artists like Robert Arneson, James Albertson, and Peter Saul, who also embrace humor (both light and dark, high and low) and comic-style treatments to comment on the more serious side of life. Stanley’s work is celebrated for its wildly imaginative narratives and distinctly female perspective, shaped by her keen observations of everyday life and setting her apart from her male contemporaries.

In SVMA’s exhibition, Stanley’s large-scale acrylic paintings, gouache and watercolor works on paper, and sculptural objects are presented alongside selections of the artist’s sketchbooks, studies, photos, and notes from her personal archives, revealing her artistic process and her relentless creative pursuits.

Exhibition Sponsors
Bank of America

Kimberly & Simon Blattner
Diana Bugg & Jim Bertlesman
Nancy Fee
Anna Francis
Meg Kellogg & Richard Scheffler
Dr. Janet Mohle-Boetani
Alan J. Pomerantz & Evie Talmus
Judi Ratto
Dana Simpson-Stokes & Ken Stokes
Elaine & Graham Smith
Vickie Soulier
Jeanne Walker Harvey

More Info