Stepping into the ornate Spanish Colonial-style building of the San Diego Museum of Art, you will begin a journey through the history of world art over the past seven thousand years. Reputed to be the oldest and largest of Balboa Park’s museums, it is home to an impressive permanent collection that has been steadily growing since its opening in 1926.
The museum’s world-famous display of Spanish old master paintings is one of the highlights of the visit. Allow plenty of time to admire works by greats such as El Greco, Goya and Sánchez Cotán. European art as a whole is very well covered, with splendid pieces from the Italian Renaissance, the French 19th and 20th centuries, including Monet, Renoir and Matisse, and the German Expressionists. This collection of paintings is joined by sculptures from modern masters Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth.
Visit the Art of East Asia display to view the intricately beautiful Ukiyo-e woodblock prints, Buddhist sculptures from China and Japan, as well many types of ceramics and decorative arts spanning over three millennia. The newly–refurbished gallery now offers visitors a number of interactive displays, enabling you to appreciate the feel and form of exhibits.
Alongside this permanent collection, there is a full programme of temporary exhibitions and events. Recent shows have focussed on the art of design and Native American art. There are frequent lectures and film showings, as well as the more laid-back Culture & Cocktail evenings. Younger visitors will love the Teen Art Café and special workshops. Balboa Park’s Visitor Center will be able to give you an up-to-date calendar of events, or you can visit the museum’s website.
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, or in advance online. Children 6 years old and younger are admitted free. Make sure you familiarise yourself with the restriction on photography before your visit, and don’t forget that larger bags cannot be taken inside. The museum is open every day except Wednesdays.
