The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, located just south of downtown Los Angeles, is a new and fascinating addition to the city. Designed by architect Ma Yansong and founded by filmmaker George Lucas and his wife Mellody Hobson, the museum spans 300,000 square feet and showcases over 1,300 pieces of art.

George Lucas, the creator of “Star Wars,” alongside Mellody Hobson, aims to highlight narrative art, which they describe as the “universal human tradition of visual storytelling.” Lucas emphasizes, “It’s not a ‘Star Wars’ museum, it’s about telling stories.” Despite this, the museum does feature “Star Wars” art, accounting for about seven percent of the collection, as Hobson notes, “It’s beautiful and packs a punch.”

The museum’s remaining pieces are organized into themes like motherhood, work, family, and love, exploring myths and emotional truths. Lucas and Hobson discuss the complexity of love, often portrayed as happy but involving heartbreak and pain.

“I am building this museum,” Lucas insisted, showcasing his commitment despite obstacles and Hobson’s previous desire to abandon the project.

With over $1 billion invested, Lucas is driven by his dedication to illustrators, offering a forum for art forms typically overlooked by major institutions. Notable supporter and friend Steven Spielberg believes Lucas will change the world with his museum, granting artists a venue for diverse art, from comic art to children’s illustrations.

The collection includes “Star Wars” concept art by Ralph McQuarrie, magazine illustrations by Norman Rockwell, comic strips, and graffiti by Banksy, showcasing varied art that Lucas appreciates.

While Lucas doesn’t focus on legacies, he sees the museum’s name as a way to draw visitors. Hobson shares her hope that visitors, especially children, will feel inspired to pursue their own creative endeavors. George Lucas and Mellody Hobson’s commitment to thinking differently shines through as the museum opens to the public, inviting all to explore the world of narrative art.