Lucas Museum of Narrative Art to Open in September 2026
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, founded by George Lucas and Mellody Hobson, is set to open its doors on September 22, 2026. This new institution aims to celebrate illustrated storytelling and the diverse forms of art that reflect human experience.
About the Museum
Located in Exposition Park, Los Angeles, the Lucas Museum will feature 100,000 square feet of gallery space. It will host 35 galleries dedicated to themes such as:
- Love
- Family
- Community
- Play
- Work
- Sports
Collection Highlights
The museum will showcase an extensive permanent collection of over 40,000 works of narrative art. Creators in this collection include:
- Norman Rockwell
- Kadir Nelson
- Frida Kahlo
- Beatrix Potter
- Maxfield Parrish
Additionally, the collection will represent iconic comic artists like Winsor McCay and Jack Kirby, alongside influential photographers such as Gordon Parks and Henri Cartier-Bresson.
Notable Artworks
Recently announced works slated for display include:
- Frank Frazetta’s cover for A Princess of Mars (1970)
- Norman Rockwell’s “Age of Romance” from The Saturday Evening Post
- Beatrix Potter’s unpublished drawing titled “Mouse with a Spinning Wheel” (1890)
- N. C. Wyeth’s illustration “The Duel on the Beach” for Ladies’ Home Journal (1926)
- Ernie Barnes’ “The Critics Corner” (2007)
Investment and Development
The Lucas Museum has faced many challenges during its development, including a reported cost of $1 billion. Initial plans considered locations in San Francisco and Chicago, but public and political hurdles shifted the focus to Los Angeles in 2017. Groundbreaking took place in 2018, with plans for an earlier opening that were delayed by the pandemic and construction complexities.
George Lucas’ Engagement
As the opening date approaches, George Lucas is actively promoting the museum. He attended San Diego International Comic-Con and New York Comic Con, engaging with fans and fellow creators.
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art promises to be a landmark venue, enriching the cultural landscape and offering insights into the power of storytelling through visual arts.
