San Diego, CA, January 5, 2026
The San Diego Museum of Art is celebrating its centennial anniversary, reflecting a hundred years of art and culture. As the oldest art institution in the region, the museum plans to host special exhibitions, including ‘SDMA 100 Years,’ and events such as the vibrant Art Alive 2026. The celebration also includes the upcoming West Wing expansion, aimed at enhancing accessibility and gallery space. The museum’s role in the community continues to evolve, demonstrating its commitment to artistic excellence.
San Diego Museum of Art Marks 100 Years of Artistic Excellence
Commemorating a Century of Creativity and Culture
San Diego, CA – The San Diego Museum of Art (SDMA) is proudly celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the region’s oldest and largest art institution. Established on February 28, 1926, the museum has evolved remarkably from its origins as the Fine Arts Gallery of San Diego into a cultural cornerstone that houses a diverse collection of over 32,000 works of art.
This anniversary isn’t just a time to reflect on the past; it’s also an opportunity to look forward. The museum’s plans for the centennial year include a series of special exhibitions and events that highlight the resilience and innovation of both the institution and the artists within our community.
Centennial Exhibition: “SDMA 100 Years”
Launching on January 24, 2026, the “SDMA 100 Years” exhibition will present highlights from the museum’s extensive collection, celebrating its evolution and lasting influence in the world of art through the century. Running through July 26, 2026, this exhibition aims to provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the museum’s commitment to collecting and showcasing cultural and artistic excellence.
Art Alive 2026
One of the crown jewels of SDMA’s celebratory calendar is Art Alive, scheduled for April 23 to 26, 2026. This signature annual fundraiser, which coincides with the centennial celebrations, transforms the galleries into an immersive experience featuring floral interpretations of renowned artworks, live entertainment, and culinary delights. It promises to be a vibrant event that encapsulates the creative spirit of San Diego.
Upcoming Exhibitions
- Local Visions: Reimagining the Façade (January 24 – July 26, 2026): Showcasing the creativity and vision of regional artists.
- Cafés and Cabarets: The Spectacular Art of Toulouse-Lautrec (April 4 – September 20, 2026): A journey through the vibrant art and culture of late 19th-century Paris by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.
- Forging a Legacy: 15 Years of Landmark Acquisitions (May 16 – September 7, 2026): Highlighting the significant additions to the museum’s collection over the past 15 years.
West Wing Expansion Plans
The museum is also preparing for a remarkable West Wing expansion, designed by the acclaimed architectural firm Foster + Partners. This ambitious project will double the gallery space, enhancing accessibility and exhibition capabilities. Groundbreaking is anticipated in 2026, coinciding with the centennial celebrations, paving the way for enhanced cultural engagement in the community.
International Exhibition in Seoul
In a demonstration of its global reach, SDMA recently showcased “From the Renaissance to Impressionism: The San Diego Museum of Art Special Exhibition” at the Sejong Museum of Art in Seoul in November 2025. This landmark exhibition featured 65 works by 60 masters of Western art history, including celebrated names like Bernardino Luini, Hieronymus Bosch, Francisco Goya, and Claude Monet—many of which were displayed outside the United States for the first time.
Historical Background
The San Diego Museum of Art was founded after the 1915 Panama-California International Exposition, with its doors opening to the public in 1926. Initially established to exhibit contemporary paintings and sculpture, the museum has continually expanded both its collection and facilities, becoming a vital part of San Diego’s cultural landscape. Its mission remains focused on inspiring, educating, and cultivating curiosity through remarkable works of art.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the San Diego Museum of Art’s centennial exhibition?
The “SDMA 100 Years” exhibition, opening on January 24, 2026, showcases highlights from the museum’s extensive collection, reflecting its evolution and impact over the past century.
When is Art Alive 2026 taking place?
Art Alive 2026 will be held from April 23 to 26, 2026. This signature annual fundraiser coincides with the centennial celebration and will feature floral interpretations of artworks, live entertainment, and culinary offerings.
What are the upcoming exhibitions at SDMA?
Upcoming exhibitions include:
- Local Visions: Reimagining the Façade (January 24 – July 26, 2026): Celebrating regional artists’ creativity and vision.
- Cafés and Cabarets: The Spectacular Art of Toulouse-Lautrec (April 4 – September 20, 2026): Exploring the vibrant world of late 19th-century Paris through the works of Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.
- Forging a Legacy: 15 Years of Landmark Acquisitions (May 16 – September 7, 2026): Highlighting significant additions to the museum’s collection over the past 15 years.
What are the plans for the West Wing expansion?
SDMA plans to construct a new West Wing, designed by Foster + Partners, aiming to double the museum’s gallery space and enhance accessibility. Groundbreaking is anticipated in 2026, coinciding with the centennial celebrations.
What was the international exhibition in Seoul about?
In November 2025, SDMA’s special exhibition “From the Renaissance to Impressionism: The San Diego Museum of Art Special Exhibition” was held at the Sejong Museum of Art in Seoul. This exhibition featured 65 works by 60 masters of Western art history, marking the first time many pieces were displayed outside the United States.
Key Features of the San Diego Museum of Art’s Centennial Celebration
| Event | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Centennial Exhibition: “SDMA 100 Years” | January 24 – July 26, 2026 | Showcasing highlights from the museum’s extensive collection, reflecting its evolution and impact over the past century. |
| Art Alive 2026 | April 23 – 26, 2026 | Signature annual fundraiser coinciding with the centennial celebration, featuring floral interpretations of artworks, live entertainment, and culinary offerings. |
| Upcoming Exhibitions | Various Dates in 2026 | Including “Local Visions: Reimagining the Façade,” “Cafés and Cabarets: The Spectacular Art of Toulouse-Lautrec,” and “Forging a Legacy: 15 Years of Landmark Acquisitions.” |
| West Wing Expansion | Groundbreaking anticipated in 2026 | Plans for a new West Wing designed by Foster + Partners to double the museum’s gallery space and enhance accessibility. |
| International Exhibition in Seoul | November 2025 | Exhibition featuring 65 works by 60 masters of Western art history, marking the first time many pieces were displayed outside the United States. |
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