Anno Domini, San Jose

Anno Domini, also known as Gallery A.D., is a contemporary art gallery in downtown San Jose that has been redefining the boundaries of art since its founding in 2000 by graphic designers Cherri Lakey and Brian Eder. With a distinct focus on street art, zine culture, and tattoo-inspired work, this gallery has become a powerhouse for urban contemporary art, both locally and internationally.

Rather than sticking to traditional white walls and framed canvases, Anno Domini fully embraces the raw energy of the art it showcases-its very walls often serve as the canvas for murals by the exhibiting artists. The gallery consistently features emerging talents, many of whom have gone on to international acclaim. The space has also hosted thought-provoking group exhibitions such as Guerrilla News Network (2003), “The FriendMakers” (2004), and the “Perpetual Motion Roadshow” (2012).

Far more than a visual art venue, Anno Domini functions as a cultural hub for counterculture expression and creative resistance. Its commitment to the avant-garde and underground has helped elevate nontraditional forms of art-graffiti, tattoos, self-published zines-into the broader cultural conversation. The gallery is also a prominent participant in San Jose’s First Friday art walks and the vibrant Street Mrkt scene, further rooting it in the city’s creative fabric.

Despite its relative youth, Anno Domini has earned global recognition, being listed among the top 100 art galleries worldwide. For anyone drawn to bold, cutting-edge art or intrigued by the voices reshaping contemporary culture, a visit to Anno Domini is an essential San Jose experience.