Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Prepares for Grand Opening
A futuristic landmark blending art, nature, and storytelling in Los Angeles.
1A Visionary Project
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, designed by MAD Architects, is set to open in Los Angeles’s Exposition Park in September 2026. Founded by filmmaker George Lucas and businesswoman Mellody Hobson, the museum spans 300,000 square feet across an 11-acre campus. It features galleries, cinematic theaters, a library, and educational spaces, aiming to celebrate storytelling through art, comics, photography, and digital media.
2Innovative Architectural Design
The museum’s sculptural form, resembling a floating canopy, is crafted with over 1,500 uniquely molded fiberglass-reinforced polymer panels. Its fluid, organic geometry contrasts with neighboring structures, creating a futuristic aesthetic. A 56-meter-long central archway spans a public plaza, while a four-story elliptical oculus visually connects the park and sky, enhancing its levitating illusion.
3Seamless Integration with Nature
Designed to blend with its surroundings, the museum features gardens with over 200 trees and greenery on its roof. Studio-MLA’s landscaping ensures the structure feels like a natural extension of Exposition Park. The reflective design encourages a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing a connection with nature.
4Spaceship-Inspired Aesthetic
The museum’s elongated form, narrowing in the middle, is covered with 1,271 white polymer panels, giving it a smooth, spaceship-like appearance. Cantilevered edges and arched glass sections further enhance this futuristic design. MAD founder Ma Yansong describes it as 'emotional architecture,' blending fluidity with functionality.
5A Hub for Storytelling
The museum houses a collection of over 40,000 works, ranging from paintings and illustrations to cinematic artifacts. It aims to be 'a museum of the people’s art,' reflecting visitors’ experiences and exploring the mysteries of life through storytelling. George Lucas envisions it as a space where mythology and art intersect.
6Cutting-Edge Features
The five-story institution includes two cinematic theaters, a rooftop venue, and dining areas. Its design prioritizes openness and lightness, with the structure touching the ground at only a few points. Seismic resilience was a key consideration, ensuring safety while maintaining its floating illusion.
7Community and Cultural Impact
Located near Los Angeles’s Exposition Park, the museum is poised to become a cultural landmark. Its immersive experience explores the relationship between nature, society, and urban environments. By integrating art and storytelling, it aims to inspire and connect diverse audiences.
8A Legacy of Innovation
The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art represents George Lucas’s vision of blending art, technology, and storytelling. Its futuristic design and expansive collection position it as a groundbreaking institution, offering a unique space for exploration and inspiration in the heart of Los Angeles.