Jenkins Johnson Gallery was established in San Francisco in 1996 by Karen Jenkins Johnson. As a member of the Art Dealers Association of America, the gallery focuses on international contemporary art and works to broaden the traditional art canon by representing artists from the African Diaspora. The program spans generations, showcasing twentieth century masters such as Gordon Parks and Mary Lovelace O’Neal alongside contemporary figures like Enrico Riley and Patrick Alston. This dual focus ensures that significant historical works and modern perspectives are represented in major museums and publications worldwide.

In 2017, the gallery expanded its reach by opening Jenkins Johnson Projects in Brooklyn. This space serves as an important platform for underrepresented artists and curators of color, fostering critical dialogue through exhibitions organized by figures like Derrick Adams and Antwaun Sargent. By supporting emerging talents such as Vaughn Spann and Carmen Neely, the gallery continues to play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of creative voices and ensuring their contribution to the global art landscape.