Mingei International Museum

Address:	1439 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, USA
Phone:	+1 619-239-0003
Site:	mingei.org
Rating:	4.5
Working:	Closed 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM 10AM–5PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 28

Gouryella Harayda

Ive been visiting San Diego museums all week and I have to say that this one was one of my favorites. They have a beautiful collection of hand crafted pieces that are full of fine details. What I appreciated most is how I enjoyed pretty much everything they had on display. A lot of museums Ive been to were dull or only had a few cool things to look at. The curators here have great taste and I was fascinated by the variety of art this museum had offer. Downstairs had Japanese signs that are supposed to be a visual representation of the service offered (a tobacco shop sign was a giant pipe). The room next to that had some Indonesian shadow puppets on display and the amount of detail on each piece was mind-blowing. Upstairs had some nice saddles and jewelry pieces. The most stunning piece was this giant wall covered in super detailed tiles made of metal. This museum is enjoyably quiet and full of beautiful art. Definitely worth a visit.

A Private User

My mom loves the gift shop here. She drags me in here whenever we are at Balboa Park. Yesterday we were in the park for Easter Brunch at the Prado, which was amazing. We did the usual march to the gift shop, but this time we actually went into the museum. I was not disappointed. I wish I could remember the name of the lady at the front desk. She was so nice and helpful. I loved the art and design from the 60s. It was so surprising to see how modern and contemporary the art was from that time. I highly recommend both the store and the museum. Moms apparently do know best.

Sue Glover

I became a member of Mingei 2 years ago and it is one of the best investments I have made to support the San Diego art community! Join with a friend and it is a geat deal! The Summer Surf Series is every Thursday night from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm now through August 21, 2014. The Surf Board exibit showing now is amazing! There are additional shows going on upstairs which makes it great for all! I also love the gift shop! It is a perfect place to pick up a special gift for a friend or yourself. Come visit Mingei International Museum and you will be blessed! Sue Glover

Max Barrett

One of the best museums in San Diego. Dynamic in its programs and with a great collection of Asian, Latin and American crafts as well as beads, doll houses and tribal arts of the world. With Modern and Contemporary Fine Art exhibits also, this is a rich experience an art lover would enjoy. When your done exploring the museum, you will find the gift shop amazing.

Carol Breckenridge

My two sisters and I thoroughly enjoyed the wood/fabric exhibit and the organic architecture at the same time. They encouraged me to take my brother when he came to town, which I did. He, too, liked it a lot. They are all from cities with great museums (New York, Philadelphia, Chicago/Santa Fe) but look forward to returning to the Mingei.

steven turner

My favorite museum in San Diego. The museums collection includes hand crafted items from around the world. Most of museum space is used for rotating exhibits and so youll never know what youre going to see. See American crafts such as quilts, furniture, and pottery. Dont miss the amazing Chihuly in the main stairway.

Scott Potter

This is a lovely museum surrounded by a group of other shops and venues. The whole place is just fun to walk around and this museum always has different kinds of exhibits. Get on the mailing list and you will be drawn down to many shows over the year. Bring a camera and a picnic lunch for your viisit.

yolanda alfaro

es una gran experiencia, estar en el museo, muy interesan, te. me encanta es un placer, caminar en el parquet balboa, con mark

Ruben & Joana Miranda

Uno de Los top 5 a lugares que tienes que conoser en San Diego One of the top 5 places in S.D

Najmi Jarwala

Absolutely amazing. The exhibit that shows art/craft representing each state is stunning. Also is the exhibit that showcases walking sticks. Did not get time to see the other areas but will revisit. This one is a gem.

Gary Standke

I have no interest in modern art. This place has great ceramic, wood, metal, fabric,paper, etc. creations. While in a modern theme there are traditional crafts of very talented artists.

Paul Schulte

Have only been here once but found it to be extremely well laid out and great displays. Fabrics were incredible. Highly recommend this museum. Expect to spend at least 2 hours.

Lisa Lorraine Bowen

A great museum for exhibiting folk art, crafts and design. There are lots of museum personnel staffing each section to speak to you about the items on display.

A Private User

One of the few museums where you can still get up close to the artwork without being obstructed by barriers. LET ART ROAM FREE!

British Stewie

The gift shop actually had really unique and nice gifts. The museum itself is nice and the exterior is simply gorgeous

A Private User

Id hesitate visiting the museum store. They desperately need training in customer service.

Rose Thomas

Be sure to get a docent tour by Andrea Shapiro, she is very knowledgeable and engaging!

Chris Jameson

Cool, but wasnt interested in seeing tons of surfboards. Everything else was awesome.

Travis King

I like art and especially the human female body is beautifully designed for us