The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Opens in Los Angeles
Located just south of downtown Los Angeles, a new landmark opens its doors—the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. This 300,000-square-foot space offers more than 1,300 pieces of art and serves as a tribute to the universal human tradition of storytelling through visuals.
Founded by filmmaker George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson, the museum is the first of its kind dedicated to narrative art. Designed by architect Ma Yansong, the museum symbolizes a space for various forms of artistic expression, eschewing the label of a ‘Star Wars’ museum, despite a small selection of related art.
Lucas and Hobson emphasize that only around seven percent of the art focuses on ‘Star Wars.’ As Hobson explains, the limited references to the popular franchise are powerful and captivating.
Beyond the ‘Star Wars’ memorabilia, the museum dedicates most of its space to exhibits centered on themes such as motherhood, work, family, and love. The founders often discuss the concept of ‘myths’—beliefs not necessarily factual but emotionally truthful. They explore complex topics like love, portraying its multifaceted nature.
The long journey to establish the museum took nearly 20 years, several setbacks, proposed locations, and a substantial financial investment from Lucas. Despite moments of doubt, such as when Hobson suggested donating the art collection elsewhere, Lucas stayed determined to build this museum.
Lucas’s passion for recognizing illustrators drove the project. He wanted a place that showcases art forms typically overlooked by major institutions, such as illustration art, muralists, and children’s art. The museum was conceptualized to offer a platform for artists traditionally unrecognized by the art world.
The museum includes an extensive array of works, from concept art by Ralph McQuarrie to magazine illustrations by Norman Rockwell. Visitors will find comic strips by V. T. Hamlin and protest graffiti by Banksy. Art enthusiasts can explore diverse displays, including a Rockwell painting and works from artists like Frida Kahlo and Banksy.
Lucas himself reflects modestly on his legacy, emphasizing a lack of sentimentality. However, Hobson hopes visitors leave inspired, believing in the power of possibility and creation.
Although Lucas claims not to focus on legacy, the museum stands as a testament to his innovative spirit. He embraces a contrarian thinking style, pushing ahead with ideas often deemed impossible. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art opens to the public, inviting everyone to engage with the world of visual storytelling.