Comic-Con See's George Lucas Unveiling of Upcoming Lucas Museum, Lucas Labels Himself as an Atypical Art Enthusiast
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, a new cultural institution set to open in Los Angeles in 2026, is an exciting development for art enthusiasts and storytelling aficionados alike. Located in Exposition Park, the museum will occupy an 11-acre campus, with a 300,000 square-foot, five-story building designed by Ma Yansong of MAD Architects[1][2][3].
The museum is dedicated to narrative art, focusing on visual storytelling that shapes society. Its collection will span various media and eras, encompassing fine art, illustrations, photography, comics, and cinematic artifacts[1][2][4][5]. Visitors can expect to see works from diverse cultures and historical periods, such as ancient cave drawings and hieroglyphics, as well as iconic items from George Lucas’s personal archives, including props, costumes, and storyboards from Star Wars and Indiana Jones. The museum's founding collection also includes works by notable artists like Norman Rockwell, Frida Kahlo, and Gordon Parks[1][2][4][5].
Inside the museum, there will be 33 galleries, two theaters, a retail space, a restaurant, a café, a library, and an event venue[1][2][3]. The museum's layout is designed to encourage public gathering and community engagement, with extensive green areas and spaces dedicated to education and research[2][3].
At the heart of the museum's mission is the belief that narrative art plays a crucial role in society. George Lucas, the museum's founder, described his approach to art collection as emotional and personal, rather than focused on monetary value or celebrity status[4][5]. According to Lucas, narrative art is important for its ability to represent stories, create shared beliefs, and build communities.
In July 2025, George Lucas, Guillermo del Toro, Doug Chiang, and Queen Latifah presented a panel at Comic-Con to preview the museum and discuss the power of narrative art[4][5]. The panel, titled "Sneak Peek of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art," further highlighted the museum’s role in celebrating illustrated storytelling across eras and cultures. During the panel, Chiang praised Lucas for the museum’s inclusivity of various art forms, particularly those that have historically been overlooked in museum contexts, such as comics books[4][5].
As the opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art draws near, it promises to be a temple to the people's art, fostering an inclusive cultural mission blending art, storytelling, and community[2]. With its extensive collection, innovative design, and commitment to public engagement, the museum is set to become a significant addition to the cultural landscape of Los Angeles.
[1] https://www.lucasmuseum.org/ [2] https://www.mad-aa.com/project/lucas-museum-of-narrative-art/ [3] https://www.studiomla.com/project/lucas-museum-of-narrative-art/ [4] https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/george-lucas-reveals-lucas-museum-narrative-art-design-1235124809/ [5] https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/24/arts/design/lucas-museum-of-narrative-art-george-lucas.html
- The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, set to open in Los Angeles in 2026, will display works from various artists like Norman Rockwell, Frida Kahlo, and Gordon Parks.
- Apart from works by famous artists, the museum will also feature artifacts from movies, such as props, costumes, and storyboards from films like Star Wars and Indiana Jones.
- The museum, located in Exposition Park, will have spaces dedicated to education and research, making it a hub for art and storytelling enthusiasts.
- Guillermo del Toro, Doug Chiang, and Queen Latifah, among others, have praised the museum for its inclusivity of various art forms, including movies, TV series, and comics.
