Opening on May 2 up until November 1, 2026, the Mingei International Museum debuts its newest exhibition, To Catch a Fish. It’s a compelling exploration of the coastal spirit that defines our daily rhythm in Southern California, particularly in San Diego.
Global Craftsmanship on Display in Balboa Park
The exhibition features over 60 craft and art objects sourced from more than 20 countries. You’ll see a collection spanning from 350 BC through the 20th century. This curation highlights the universal bond between humanity and the sea.
- Handcrafted basketry fish traps, scrapers, weights, and nets.
- Amulets, garments, and religious imagery.
- Kites and symbolic objects.
You can discover more about the museum’s historic surroundings at Balboa Park’s official website.
Cultural Artifacts and Maritime History
San Diego locals will appreciate historical pieces like the La Tolita culture effigy fish scrapers and Indonesian reed shrimp traps. The display also includes iconic Japanese glass fishing floats and colorful Mexican painted clay mermaids. Don’t miss the Haida culture Button Blanket, which incorporates copper and abalone into a stunning textile work.
In coastal regions, the objects we create to harvest the sea eventually become the artifacts that define our cultural soul. This sentiment resonates deeply with those who choose to call our shores home. It’s a testament to how the ocean shapes our identity far beyond the shoreline.
Contemporary Installations by Nicolson and Lang
Artist Marianne Nicolson presents The Halibut Hooks, which uses light projections to recreate a Kwakwaka’wakw painted house-front. Handmade halibut hooks hang from the ceiling, casting intricate shadows that transform the gallery environment. It’s a thoughtful look at the relationship between indigenous communities and the sea.
Robert J. Lang contributes Vertical Pond III: From the Ashes, a wall-mounted installation featuring origami koi. The paper used for the koi contains ashes from works lost in the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. It stands as a striking meditation on resilience and the power of renewal.
Planning Your Museum Visit
Residents should plan their visit to the museum’s beautiful space at the Plaza de Panama. This location remains a cornerstone of the Balboa Park experience.
- Dates: Saturday, May 2 through Sunday, November 1, 2026.
- Location: 1439 El Prado, Plaza de Panama, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA.
- General Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday (10 AM to 5 PM).
- Extended Hours: Friday (10 AM to 8 PM).
For additional visitor information or to purchase admission, visit the Mingei International Museum ticket page.
For more local events in San Diego, read our San Diego Living blogs here.
