Full Breakdown
Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Set to Open in 2026
11/13/2025, 2:24:55 AM
Announcement of Opening Date
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, founded by filmmaker George Lucas and his wife, Mellody Hobson, has officially announced its opening date for September 22, 2026. This cultural institution, located in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, has faced nearly four years of delays since construction began in March 2018. Originally slated to open in 2021, the timeline was pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global supply-chain issues.
Museum Features and Collection
The museum will span 300,000 square feet, with 100,000 square feet dedicated to exhibition space across 35 galleries. The galleries will explore themes reflecting the human experience, such as love, family, community, and adventure. The museum's permanent collection boasts over 40,000 works, featuring notable artists like Norman Rockwell, Frida Kahlo, Beatrix Potter, and comic art legends such as Jack Kirby and Alison Bechdel. Additionally, the Lucas Archives will house models, props, and costumes from Lucas's filmmaking career, including items from the "Star Wars" franchise.
Design and Architecture
Designed by Ma Yansong of MAD Architects, the museum's futuristic structure is complemented by gardens designed by Mia Lehrer of Studio-MLA. The facility will include two theaters, a library, a restaurant, a café, and community spaces, all set within an 11-acre park that will be accessible to the public.
Challenges and Changes
The road to completion has been fraught with challenges, including design changes and conflicts among the architectural team. In May 2025, the museum laid off 15 full-time employees, approximately 14% of its staff, following the departure of its director and CEO, Sandra Jackson-Dumont. George Lucas has since taken on a more active role in content direction.
Official Statements
George Lucas emphasized the museum's mission, stating, “Stories are mythology, and when illustrated, they help humans understand the mysteries of life.” Mellody Hobson added, “This is a museum of the people’s art—the images are illustrations of beliefs we live with every day. For that reason, this art belongs to everyone.”
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the excitement surrounding the museum's opening, some critics have raised concerns about the financial health of the institution following the layoffs and leadership changes. The museum's commitment to education and public programming has been questioned, although officials maintain that education remains a central pillar of the museum's mission.
What's Next
As the opening date approaches, George Lucas has been actively promoting the museum, participating in events such as San Diego Comic-Con and New York Comic Con. The museum aims to become a significant cultural landmark, enriching the narrative arts and providing a platform for illustrated storytelling.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Stories are mythology, and when illustrated, they help humans understand the mysteries of life.” — George Lucas, Co-founder of the Lucas Museum
- “This is a museum of the people’s art—the images are illustrations of beliefs we live with every day.” — Mellody Hobson, Co-founder of the Lucas Museum
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is poised to open its doors in 2026, promising to celebrate the art of storytelling and its profound impact on human experience.
