Everybody knows about downtown San Jose’s gallery scene, and that’s a good thing. But culture doesn’t end where Monterey Highway begins. Morgan Hill’s stylish Cura Contemporary is one very high point, and this week the gallery kicks off its Fall 2025 Performance Series, a celebration of live music, dance and immersive art that brings together nationally recognized artists in an intimate setting. In Praise of Shadows—a site-specific installation featuring shadow puppets, video projections and live music—opens this Saturday. The opening reception takes place Nov 1, 4-6pm, and will be on view until Nov 9, along with artist demonstrations and a workshop. Cura Contemporary, 17395 Monterey Rd, Morgan Hill. 408.778.1800. curacontemporary.com
Thu, Oct 30
Noontime Concerts—A lecture-presentation on Beethoven’s song cycle An die ferne Geliebte, op. 98, with Christine Brandes (soprano) Nicholas Mathew (fortepiano) and musicologist Birgit Lodes, followed by an informal coffee reception. Free, Oct 30, noon-1pm. 5th Floor, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Library, San Jose State University. events.sjsu.edu
Essential Adaptations—The exhibit explores how Costa Rican printmakers employ creative reuse, recycling, and individual materials development. Free. Through Feb. 13, 2026. Natalie and James Thompson Art Gallery, Art Building, San José State University.
Fri, Oct 31
Silicon Valley Jewish Film Festival—A hybrid schedule of 30 screenings that includes some in-person events and other virtual watch parties. Continues through Nov 2. svjff.org
Sat, Nov 1
De Anza Flea Market—Open rain or shine, the first Saturday of the month. Free. Nov 1, 8am-2pm. De Anza College, 21250 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino. deanza.edu/fleamarket
Navigating Uncertainty—A one-woman show by artist Kathryn Polk, whose imagery is based on women navigating their lives through work, relationships, and day-to-day survival. Opening reception takes place Nov 1, 4-6pm. Free. On view through Jan 4, 2026. Cura Contemporary, 17395 Monterey Rd, Morgan Hill. 408.778.1800. curacontemporary.com
ICA San Jose Art Auction—Celebrate the 45th anniversary of the founding of ICA San José. The event will honor patrons Nicki and Pete Moffat, along with artist Naomie Kremer, with a night of tempting bites, vibrant drinks, shared learning, and warm connection. $108.55+. November 1, from 5-9pm. Institute of Contemporary Art San José, 560 S 1st St, San Jose.
Edge of Softness—Community curators Cynthia Yadira Gonzalez and Alyssarhaye Graciano select works that evince “seriously cutting edge cushiness.” Opening reception Nov 1, 5-9pm. Nov 1, Dec 7. Works/San Jose, 38 S 2nd St, San Jose. workssanjose.org
All Saints—A curated environment transformed by art, music and activations. Suggested donation of $50 from 7-10pm; admission free to after party. Nov 1, 7pm-2am. James Grain Warehouse, 245 McEvoy St, San Jose. asieldesign.com/all-saints
Humans 2.0—Ten bodies appear in a flash of light, moving in harmony. Created by visionary Yaron Lifschitz, it’s part of Australian performing troupe Circa’s current show, Humans 2.0, which addresses the challenge of being homo sapiens. $16-$91. Nov 1, 7:30; Nov 2, 2:30pm. Bing Concert Hall, Stanford University. live.stanford.edu
Lost Frequencies—Lost Frequencies, the Belgian DJ and producer also known as Félix De Laet, shares his signature sound. $60. 18 and over. Nov 1, 8pm. San Jose Civic, 135 W San Carlos St, San Jose. sanjosetheaters.org
Tue, Nov 4
Joyce Savre: Revery—Gallery 9’s featured exhibition for November 2025 is a solo exhibit of mixed-media work by Joyce Savre. Opening reception: Nov 7, 5-8pm. On view Nov 4-30. Gallery 9, 143 Main St, Los Altos. gallery9losaltos.com
