Los Angeles residents will soon have a new cultural landmark to explore. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, located on the 11‑acre Exposition Park campus, is slated to open its doors to the public on September 22. The museum’s mission is to celebrate the art of storytelling—from classic comic strips to blockbuster film franchises—while positioning itself as a “museum by the people for the people,” according to co‑founder Mellody Hobson.
Celebrating illustrators and narrative creators
During a pre‑opening press event, George Lucas explained that the museum honors the illustrators who bring written stories to life. “It’s something I felt very, very strongly about in terms of honoring illustrators. Artists who illustrate stories that are already written,” he said. Senior curator Ryan Linkof echoed the sentiment, describing the institution as “art that illustrates stories.”
The 300,000‑square‑foot facility will feature galleries, two theaters, a library, a restaurant, a café, and retail and community spaces. Its collection includes iconic works by comic‑book legend Jack Kirby, American painter Norman Rockwell, anonymous street artist Banksy, and acclaimed illustrator Kadir Nelson, alongside a trove of Lucas‑related models, props, concept art and costumes.
Community focus and family‑friendly design
For Hobson, the museum is as much about community as it is about art. “I tell people, the Lucas Museum is a museum by the people for the people,” she said, emphasizing the venue’s role as a gathering place for families and visitors of all ages. The design, led by architect Ma Yansong of MAD Architects, aims to become a new landmark for Los Angeles—a city known for dreaming big.
“He’s a dreamer. He’s making movies. Now we’re making this dream into reality,” Yansong noted, adding that the building itself is intended to inspire future generations.
Long‑term vision for the cultural landscape
Tracey Bates, CEO of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, stressed that the institution’s success will be measured over generations, not just on opening day. “This has been built to be a longstanding institution. It will live long beyond George and Mellody and myself, so really success is just it being a part of the Los Angeles cultural community for a long time,” she said.
Beyond the high‑profile exhibits, the museum plans to host educational programs, community workshops, and family‑focused events that align with traditional family values and encourage creative expression. With its blend of popular culture and classic art, the museum promises to be a destination where parents can share beloved stories with their children while exploring the broader narrative traditions that shape our society.
What to expect when it opens
Visitors can look forward to guided tours, interactive installations, and a rotating schedule of special exhibitions. The museum’s library will house a comprehensive archive of narrative art, offering scholars and enthusiasts alike a resource for research and inspiration. Food options include a full‑service restaurant and a casual café, ensuring that families can spend an entire day exploring without needing to leave the campus.
As Los Angeles prepares for the museum’s debut, city officials and local businesses are optimistic about the economic boost and cultural enrichment the venue will bring. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art stands poised to become a new hub for storytelling, creativity, and community connection in the heart of Southern California.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
