Lucas Museum Will Feature Limited Star Wars Content, Curator Reveals

The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, slated to open in 2026, will include only one gallery dedicated to Star Wars designs despite expectations it would heavily feature the iconic franchise.

George Lucas, the museum’s founder and now its primary curator, explained to the Wall Street Journal that the museum aims to showcase a broad history of visual storytelling, “from Stone Age cave painters to masters of futuristic fantasy.” The collection, begun 60 years ago, comprises over 40,000 pieces, including 160 works by Norman Rockwell, and is organized around universal themes like family and love. This focus on narrative art across history is intended to establish the museum as a significant cultural institution beyond its association with Lucas’s film work.

While a Naboo Starfighter and other Lucas-related pop culture items will be displayed, Lucas stated, “It’s one gallery out of 33. And I did it grudgingly.” He added, “I didn’t want people to come to the museum and say, ‘Where’s the Star Wars?’” The decision to limit Star Wars representation comes after the museum’s initially hired director stepped down earlier this year, with Lucas taking over curation responsibilities. You can explore other significant museums around the world at the Smithsonian Magazine’s list of top museums.

Museum officials have not yet announced a specific opening date beyond 2026, but continue to finalize exhibits and prepare for the launch of what is expected to be a major Los Angeles attraction. Further details about the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art are available on its official website.