Popular Mingei Folk Art Museum To Reopen This Summer In Renovated 1915 House Of Charm

San Diego CA

13 March, 2021

6:17 PM

Description

By Chris Jennewein, Times of San Diego March 13, 2021 The Mingei International Museum's three-year transformation is nearing an end, with the fully renovated folk art institution scheduled to reopen in Balboa Park in the late summer. The improvements to the 1915 Spanish Colonial-style House of Charm include an additional 10,000 square feet of exhibition space, a full-size theater, and new amenities including a bistro, gift shop and coffee bar. "Mingei's transformation of our historic facility will redefine our relationship to our beloved Balboa Park, the entire San Diego community, the region and the world," said Rob Sidner, the museum's executive director and chief executive officer. "This extraordinary renovation of a city-owned building is our gift back to the park and to the city — one that will endure for generations to come." San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria called the renovation a "bold, inspirational project" that will benefit the entire city. "The renovated and reimagined museum is one of many things we have to look forward to when we can all come together again," Gloria said. After two years of design, planning and fundraising, demolition began in September 2018 with full construction commencing one year later. Among the noteworthy elements in the design by San Diego architectural firm LUCE et studio are: Mingei is still actively engaged in a fundraising campaign, with a goal of $55 million to cover the entire project. So far $41 million has been raised. After the reopening, museum hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, with expanded evening hours until 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays. Admission to the second floor gallery level will be $14. Times of San Diego is an independent online news site covering the San Diego metropolitan area. Our journalists report on politics, crime, business, sports, education, arts, the military and everyday life in San Diego. No subscription is required, and you can sign up for a free daily newsletter with a summary of the latest news.