Art awaits around every corner! Discover inspiring art installations that are fixtures of the King Library, alongside dynamic rotating exhibits that bring fresh perspectives and new visual experiences throughout the year.
As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to the arts, the San José Public Art Program commissioned artist Mel Chin to create an artwork for the new Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library. Mel Chin’s approach was a non-traditional one, creating 34 artworks, sited throughout the library, designed to pay homage to the Library’s collections. These artworks are to provoke your interest and curiosity, encouraging exploration and circulation throughout the Library.
The California Room features three sculptures created by Edmonia Lewis: Asleep (marble, 1871), Awake (marble, 1872), and a bust of Abraham Lincoln (marble, 1871). An earlier version of Asleep, called Night (marble, 1870), is held at the Baltimore Museum of Art.
The Jennifer and Philip DiNapoli Gallery in the King Library is now accepting exhibit proposals for the 2026 calendar year! For more information, please review the Exhibit Policy and fill out the interest form.
Proposal Submissions are due by 11:59 p.m on Monday, September 22nd, 2025.