Mingei International Museum

We enjoyed learning about all of the textiles and how indigo came to be used in clothing, including Levi's blue jeans. There is a lovely museum store, as well. We were especially excited to see the Chihuly piece hanging in the stairwell. The picture I took does not do this piece of art the justice it deserves.

I have been a member of this museum for over 10 years and enjoy visiting weekly and it pains me to write this review about my favorite museum in San Diego. However, the Mingei has recently cancelled an exhibit of Palestinian art and textiles , effectively censoring their voices during a pivotal moment in time. These voices deserve to be uplifted, not silenced. I was looking forward to such an important cultural event. As an international museum you have no right to censor international art at the bequest of your well endowed monied donors. Your community demands better of you and in fact DESERVES better. Censorship has absolutely no place in art, the same as it has no place in books or education. I no longer feel safe in a museum who censors art and caters to powerful donors. Art is for the people of our community to enjoy and learn from. Shame on you for making sure we can't do that I will be cancelling my membership with Mingei and immediately ceasing all support of Balboa Park and its operations and I will be alerting my San Diego community to the great disservice you have done as you embarrassingly stand on the wrong side of history.

This is a fascinating museum. We have visited twice, and both times been amazed at exhibits. Paper art from Japan was pretty astounding, but in particular paper "lace" with amazing detail. The museum's restaurant was equally fabulous, with meals from many cultures. The board room features a long wood table and chairs that reflect the artistry of woodworking. This place is a visual treat and should not be missed if strolling Balboa Park. Wheelchair access was quite straightforward as well.

Was a delightful museum to tour. A lot of history and creative works. Especially enjoyed the fabric exhibits. Thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

It’s been a long time since I visited this museum. There were interesting art and cultural display. It is a small museum and the current displays were not as impressive as I recall other exhibits in the past years. It has a rooftop terrace that provides nice view of the park.

We visited this museum on one of their Free Tuesdays. It's a nice museum and the current exhibit was on weavings from around the world. It's a small museum like the rest of the museums in Balboa Park. There were a few docents scattered around the museum that afternoon and they were so nice. They offered insights into the different pieces and made our visit even richer. They even have a beautiful Dale Chihuly piece suspended over the stairs to the upper level. There are two nice terraces upstairs with beautiful views of Balboa Park.

This museum has intricate statues, cultural items, tapestries, and other art. There's also a library and a balcony. The ground floor is free and features items from different parts of the world. There's a cafe, gift shop, and restaurant too. Also, this museum has a free coat check and unisex restrooms. You can purchase a Balboa Park explorer pass to visit this and other museums at a discount.

I really enjoyed this museum. There are some outstanding works exhibited on the bottom floor which is free. Upstairs were two exhibits on traditional textiles and baskets, and contemporary jewelry. I would have liked to learn more about some of the traditional weaving techniques and materials.

We enjoyed learning about all of the textiles and how indigo came to be used in clothing, including Levi's blue jeans. There is a lovely museum store, as well. We were especially excited to see the Chihuly piece hanging in the stairwell. The picture I took does not do this piece of art the justice it deserves.

I have been a member of this museum for over 10 years and enjoy visiting weekly and it pains me to write this review about my favorite museum in San Diego. However, the Mingei has recently cancelled an exhibit of Palestinian art and textiles , effectively censoring their voices during a pivotal moment in time. These voices deserve to be uplifted, not silenced. I was looking forward to such an important cultural event. As an international museum you have no right to censor international art at the bequest of your well endowed monied donors. Your community demands better of you and in fact DESERVES better. Censorship has absolutely no place in art, the same as it has no place in books or education. I no longer feel safe in a museum who censors art and caters to powerful donors. Art is for the people of our community to enjoy and learn from. Shame on you for making sure we can't do that I will be cancelling my membership with Mingei and immediately ceasing all support of Balboa Park and its operations and I will be alerting my San Diego community to the great disservice you have done as you embarrassingly stand on the wrong side of history.

This is a fascinating museum. We have visited twice, and both times been amazed at exhibits. Paper art from Japan was pretty astounding, but in particular paper "lace" with amazing detail. The museum's restaurant was equally fabulous, with meals from many cultures. The board room features a long wood table and chairs that reflect the artistry of woodworking. This place is a visual treat and should not be missed if strolling Balboa Park. Wheelchair access was quite straightforward as well.

Was a delightful museum to tour. A lot of history and creative works. Especially enjoyed the fabric exhibits. Thoroughly enjoyed my time there.

It’s been a long time since I visited this museum. There were interesting art and cultural display. It is a small museum and the current displays were not as impressive as I recall other exhibits in the past years. It has a rooftop terrace that provides nice view of the park.

We visited this museum on one of their Free Tuesdays. It's a nice museum and the current exhibit was on weavings from around the world. It's a small museum like the rest of the museums in Balboa Park. There were a few docents scattered around the museum that afternoon and they were so nice. They offered insights into the different pieces and made our visit even richer. They even have a beautiful Dale Chihuly piece suspended over the stairs to the upper level. There are two nice terraces upstairs with beautiful views of Balboa Park.

This museum has intricate statues, cultural items, tapestries, and other art. There's also a library and a balcony. The ground floor is free and features items from different parts of the world. There's a cafe, gift shop, and restaurant too. Also, this museum has a free coat check and unisex restrooms. You can purchase a Balboa Park explorer pass to visit this and other museums at a discount.

I really enjoyed this museum. There are some outstanding works exhibited on the bottom floor which is free. Upstairs were two exhibits on traditional textiles and baskets, and contemporary jewelry. I would have liked to learn more about some of the traditional weaving techniques and materials.

I visited this museum after-hours for a private work event (read: for free); we were generously given access to everything. Upstairs, the current exhibition is Indigo; there is basically a history of the cultivation, trading and uses featured. I marveled at the Japanese garments and wooden pieces. Downstairs there are a few displays; I especially loved the beaded and cross-stitched 3-D animals crafted in Mexico. There's plenty of restrooms, a wide staircase, and an elevator. Art and items are spaced nicely apart though this museum is very, very tiny. The hardest thing was finding parking; besides lots being located inconveniently in pockets around the line of museums along the main street, there were so many events going on that one had Valet only. The Haunted Trail is also open, making parking more challenging. Overall, I would return in the future to see what's new (depending on the cost of admission) and I would definitely like to check out more of the museums in the area. The Air and Space and the Automotive ones caught my eye. Pros: - organized and thoughtful - handicap accessible - plenty of restrooms - enthusiastic employees around to answer questions Cons: - parking can be difficult - boring for some (probably kids) - very small

If you enjoy arts especially from Asia, this is the right place to learn about it, I don't remember how many time I visited the museum and fascinated about every artifacts, but it was my first time attending a reception here, so I get to explore the basement level, with a big show room of private arts, they had food drinks and guest speakers, it was a fun night. Again anything around Balboa park will require you a lot of walking since parking was faraway. Maybe try to wear high heels or have your significant other to drop you off in front of the entrance of any places you planning to go

What a surprise! Was walking around Balboa Park and happened to walk into this cool museum when they're having their Free Tuesday! The exhibits are fun and interesting, there's a library, a cafe and a gift shop. I recommend checking out the patio from the second floor. The view is pretty!

This cultural gem will transport you into a world of exquisite craftsmanship and artistic expression. I love how their collection from around the world showcases the beauty of ordinary everyday objects that the artists have transformed into something extraordinary. Walk inside and experience the museum's commitment to celebrating artistry through crafted creations and new takes on things we all consider regular stuff. The presentations are thoughtful and thought-provoking. Even the museum's layout and floorplan are well thought out and enhance the experience as you move seamlessly from one exhibit to the next. There is lots of natural light to highlight the objects on display. They also keep things fresh with special exhibitions alongside their permanent collection. It's located inside Balboa Park and if you haven't been and you have this museum on your "places to visit" list, know that you'll most likely be parking in one of the large lots that surround the park and then either making a walk (count on at least 5 minutes) or catching a ride on the park's tram that makes regular stops along a curvy circular route at 15-minute intervals. Equip footwear accordingly.

We visited this museum on one of their Free Tuesdays. It's a nice museum and the current exhibit was on weavings from around the world. It's a small museum like the rest of the museums in Balboa Park. There were a few docents scattered around the museum that afternoon and they were so nice. They offered insights into the different pieces and made our visit even richer. They even have a beautiful Dale Chihuly piece suspended over the stairs to the upper level. There are two nice terraces upstairs with beautiful views of Balboa Park.

The renovated space of the Mingei is an art form in itself. Melting into the dining and outdoor spaces are beautiful commissioned pieces. For instance, stand at the bar. Look down. The bar itself is artfully fashioned walnut. Look up. The ceiling evokes a player piano-another commissioned work. We had the pleasure of a docent led tour (Elinor) of the Washi (Japanese paper) exhibit- a blistering array of form, precision, color and variation in the use of Washi as an applied art form. The grand finale of our visit to the Mingei Museum was a lovely, very internationally flavored, lunch. We five each ordered an entirely different selection. Mine was a samosa, which was truly delicious. I would have been happy with any of the plates presented to us. In spite of this being an amazing photo op, it never occurred to me to take pictures! I was mesmerized. Special thanks for our lovely docent, and kudos to the Artifact Restaurant Chef.

The first floor is free and has beautiful art. They also have a great gender neutral bathroom with individual stalls that have their own sinks.

This is a fascinating museum. We have visited twice, and both times been amazed at exhibits. Paper art from Japan was pretty astounding, but in particular paper "lace" with amazing detail. The museum's restaurant was equally fabulous, with meals from many cultures. The board room features a long wood table and chairs that reflect the artistry of woodworking. This place is a visual treat and should not be missed if strolling Balboa Park. Wheelchair access was quite straightforward as well.

Extremely rude staff, made me extremely uncomfortable while being loud and vocal about a service animal. I recommend the staff have some training on what they are allowed and not allowed to ask when it comes to service animals and their purpose.

This is a small arts and crafts museum in Balboa Park. I was a bit disappointed by the remodel. I thought they were remodeling the exhibition gallery, but they instead added a cafe. The cafe and wine bar looked snobbish. They added a rooftop patio, with a nice view of the tower, though. I guess I expected more since they spent 55 million on the remodel. Anyway I'm glad they are open again. The third Tuesday of the month is free for San Diego residents, just show your address on your ID.

Fostering the universal language of art from all over the world. Upon entering the first floor is free to view and explore with a gift shop and small restaurant included. If you are unable to visit in person the Mingei's permanent collection is available to view online. How cool is that? While you're viewing the second level, (with paid admission) a tall reference library greets you. It's filled with collections of paper craft, ceramic, jewelry, quilting, beads, costumes and more. Books are not available to check out, but you're welcome to stay and read to your hearts desire. Membership is recommended if you plan to visit this library often. Otherwise known as; Frances Hamilton White Art reference library. Numerous levels of membership are offered depending on your needs. My daughter and I spent a few hours strolling through the entire museum. It was really fun and exciting to inspect so many different forms of art. If you have a chance to come in person I highly recommend it! Check out their calendar for upcoming events and exhibitions.

The Mingei is a beautiful and well curated museum. I always enjoy their exhibitions and their permanent collections.

This is a review for the first floor of the museum, which is free entry and I'll update this review when I see the other floors. It's a neat place to walk through and looks very contemporary and modern! The first floor is a shared space with some folk art pieces on display such as textiles, cute, small small knick knacks and statues, etc from cultures all around the world, a gift shop with art pieces from local artists, and a pop-up cafe. There was also a display outside with Christmas cultural celebration displays from other countries such as the Philippines. Neat place to walk through on a day through Balboa Park!

I thoroughly enjoyed the minimal modern feel of this museum and the colorful pinata exhibit that was on display.

We went on a field trip here with a whole group of 5th and 6th graders (I want to start out with that). We had a bunch of chaperones with us, but they are 5th graders. We entered the building in groups with a guide. The kids were so excited, but they weren't obnoxious. They were asking appropriate questions; they were engaged; and they were happy. But our guide (and security) made it HARD to enjoy the art. First, they were asked a question about how piñatas were made... they kept saying "confetti" and our guide was like "NO. It's NOT confetti." Literally so mean. Then older people were around us she's like "we need to stay away and move for them. They are older and like to ENJOY the art." Like we weren't also enjoying and learning about the art. That really irritated me. The kids would try to sit on a bench while our guide explained things and would tell them to "stand as they are young. They don't need to sit." If she didn't like their creative answers, she would let them know it was absolutely wrong. For example, they were talking about a quilt and one of the kids was asked "what's your favorite?" And they said the square one and she said "that one's boring." Well why did you ask then?! Security followed us around the whole time (and I understand watching the kids but we were told to have them not run, use inside voices, stay with the group, etc.) so just staring at them was uninviting. I want to go back with just my family, as my son loves being creative and he loves art, but I'm not too happy with the experience we had here. The ONLY reason I'm giving this place a 2 star review is because I loved the set up, the art, and the area.

First floor of this museum is free. The exhibits were interesting. There's a piñata exhibit on the second floor right now. The bathrooms are gender neutral and despite the stalls being in the same room, it felt very private with fully closed doors (no gaps!) and sinks in each stall. Also very clean! Highly recommend checking out this museum!

The Mingai International Museum focuses on folk art, crafts, and design. This is not something that resonates with me, but I can appreciate the collection of textiles, furniture, pottery, costumes, musical instruments, and sculpture from around the world. The displays are well designed and beautiful. One has to admire the curation effort. The Museum forms the apex of a triangle in Balboa Park with the Prado and the San Diego Museum of Art at the other two points.

Kids loved the hands on craft center on the first floor. Awesome exhibits upstairs and free every third Tuesdays to residents.

Staff were snobby and weren't friendly. I felt uncomfortable being here and really couldn't enjoy the art. The museum is beautiful. Would not come back to here and waste my money when staff just glare at you the whole time. Didn't get a greeting or a goodbye like most places generally would. 1 star. Edit: Not friendly to poc!! My family and I are hispanic and I felt targeted for my color. There was a white man also in the museum and he got completely different service than my family.

Can I say this museum is my favorite museum so far in San Diego? I didn't plan to visit here today but it was at museum month when I just walked by, I decided to have a look. I got a half price ticket because of the museum month. The exhibition is amazing! I really love how the curators curated all the folk craft arts from all over the world. I can see the arts are very different in their own cultural ways based on their history and location, but also kinda connected in someway based on the whole human beings' cultural development. I love to see how folk arts influence and reflect our society.

Actual museum : The Mingei Museum is a very unique museum, I have never been anywhere like it. Being an art museum it is always super exciting to see things that have been created, but this one being focused on international pieces of work is just amazing to me. One of the people I've as speaking with afterwards, mentioned that this museum being a "folk art" museum, she truly felt like this showcased art from her home and her heritage, and I can't imagine how others may feel as well when they get the chance to go. Sometimes being far from home, you miss the simplistic pieces of folk art, but this is a place for people to go here in California. I am not an art critic so I won't go into crazy details, but I will say that I have a lot of international friends and I do intend on bringing them if they ever visit me here. Coffee side of things : Their coffee shop is quite small, with access from both the museum and the outside, it has no inside seating but it does how outside seating available, as well as having plenty of seating in the museum's first level when it is open. The actual shop itself has plenty of food options, and their pastries are exquisite. They use a few different vendors for their cookies and their pastries. I've tried a few different ones now and I have got to say they are AMAZING. I tend not to go crazy on getting pastries when I go places but I've been here a few times now and I cannot pass up their strawberry scone, it is probably one of my favorite treats right now. Other amazing ones they have are their lemon lavender cookie, oatmeal cherry chocolate chip cookie, and I'm trying their gluten free double chocolate one today. As for their coffee itself. They use dark horse roasters, which is a great roaster, their espresso is not acidic at all, it does lean on the more burnt side so be aware of that when trying it. They have great brands for their alternative milks, and while I personally don't use them on my drinks, I do recommend them. The baristas are fairly new so I have held off about a month before writing this review, to give them time, but we are at that point where I feel they have had enough time to practice, and quite frankly they are going to need more time. They are considered a craft coffee shop and I wouldn't recommend them as that. They have amazing flavors and great ideas, but haven't quite pinned down the actual craft of making the coffee. I will say their pouring of shots has heavily improved over the last month, but the steaming of milk has been off each and every time I've been, some over poured, too milky, inconsistent temperatures, just overall poorly done milks. I have been able deal with many issues from coffee shops, because I truly believe there is room to grow, both in practice and supplies. But the worst time I've been to this shop I was handed a cup of just a batch brew, and the barista (I actually think it is the coffee shop manager, but not sure) looked into the cup and noticed their was grounds in it and still tried to hand it to me. I am sorry but this is supposed to be a craft coffee shop and I know for a fact not even Starbucks will hand you something they know for a fact has grounds in it. If it was an accident, I wouldn't be as upset, but he looked at it saw it handed it to me and then turned around quickly as though he thought I wouldn't complain if he turned around. Definitely not a very good look. As for the baristas themselves, they are new, but they don't seem very passionate. I haven't ever been welcomed when I come in. They have always tried to answer my questions but usually they don't seem to want to or even know the answers. It would be nice if they cared just a little bit more about their role as a barista.

Stopped by this place while visiting Balboa Park for the first time . Although the contents were interesting, this place was extremely small and the ticket only grants you access to 1 level. You can easily finish the whole place in about 20 minutes, so I would not say it was worth the $15 admission price.

Till I got around to write my review, I've noticed that the museum is closed till later in 2019 for renovations! Nonetheless, Mingei is my favorite museum within Balboa Park complex. It specializes in folk art, design of various civilizations from all over the world. They also had unique exhibits, very well researched of various countries from around the globe and time periods. Always decent collections, rare, hard to see. The building is beautiful, not too big, not too small, a very nice space to explore. In front of the Mingei Museum's beautiful building there are a couple of Niki de Saint Phalle colorful sculptures, impossible to miss (some of her work is easy to spot inside as well). This is where I first discover the unique style of the French artist that spend the last part of her life in San Diego area and fell in love with it. Too bad the museum is closed for now. In the meantime, they do have a store opened (Liberty Station) and a cafe there as well. I'll keep my eyes opened for Mingei's re-opening. I'd love to check out the renovations, find an excuse to go to San Diego again and update my review.

First off, I'm not that into folk art, so the Mingei is not really likely to be my cup of tea. That aside, I was very impressed with the soft opening, when the Mingei revealed the extensive remodel that had kept it closed for quite some time. Although I was disappointed that they shrunk their exhibit space by removing most of the first floor exhibits, the opening exhibition was quite interesting, and even better were the two newly open to the public decks that overlooking the park's plaza, art museums, Prado, and Botanical Building. I hope they utilize that space, as it provides a wonderful new view of the immediate area. The Mingei also has one of the more interesting gift shops in the park and a really impressive glassed-in library. Also, I was quite impressed that they got everyone during a busy opening weekend, and I mean everyone, to wear their masks properly. I don't think I've ever seen that level of compliance in a public space. All in all they did a nice job with the museum remodel, and like I said, the only disappointing thing is that they shrunk the exhibit space footprint, which wasn't that large to begin with. If you enjoy folk arts, I would recommend a visit, although non-folk art buffs are likely to enjoy other museums in the park a bit more.

My favorite museum. The refugee stitches exhibit is breathtaking. Not to be missed.

The Mingei may be my favorite museum at Balboa Park. There are always great surprises here. Currently, the small exhibition of Indonesian shadow puppets is fascinating for the incredible details painted into each flat puppet. I came here to see the rugs and blankets from the Navajo Diné culture. The textiles on display are superb and it was interesting to learn the extent of the influence of white owners of trading posts in the designs that catered to tourists.

I really wanted to love the New Mingei and have been a member for years (even through the long remodel). The old was warm and welcoming and I attended lots of events and loved the exhibits. I've come to the post-remodel Mingei a handful of times and am less and less impressed. At first I thought it was very nice. Now it feels cold and harsh. I do enjoy the exhibits upstairs, but I each time I've come, some of the upstairs is under construction (and I've come at different times to see if it will ever all be done). I didn't bother to check out the exhibits this last time. I do like the new balcony- it's lovely. The restaurant (Artifact) is delicious but seating is weird. It looks and feels like a museum cafeteria but it's trying to be fancier. The food is fantastic. The last time we were there for happy hour, they try very hard to persuade you to only sit on the uncomfortable bar stools (no backs). Several people wanted to sit at the tables for happy hour since it looks like all one open place (incredibly poor design if they have to constantly herd people away from a small room of empty tables to the bar stools). We were there on a Saturday and I got the feeling that they're not really open til 5pm. At 10 til, the gift shop started closing (okay- obviously locking the museum doors at 5 to give them time to close the gift shop isn't an option) and the lower level bathroom closed for cleaning (according to the staff- so they didn't have to pay the cleaning person overtime- which is a very weird contract that she has to be done cleaning by 5 with people still in the museum), and the overall vibe was that we weren't welcome even though we'd bought food and drinks and something in the gift shop. They made us feel like it was midnight and we overstayed our welcome. It was 4:50. I went upstairs to use the bathroom and a few people were waiting when the doors opened to tell me they were closing in 10 min. Yes. I know. I have to use these bathrooms since the lower one closed early. We ended up being in the museum longer (which made me laugh) because we couldn't use the bathroom closest to us. I'm definitely not renewing my membership in Nov. The exhibits are nice, but I can live without them or I can come for free Tuesdays. I can access Artifact without being a member (seriously- the food is delicious if you come at the right time), and members don't get discounts at the restaurant anyway. I obviously won't come near closing again. The attitude and complaints from the staff about needing to close the museum early so they can sweep the restaurant/ pay for cleaning were off-putting and weird. Cleaning is necessary and impt. But shouldn't that level of deep cleaning happen after the museum has closed? At 5pm? We were trying to leave and they did everything they could to make it harder- lol.

My family was visiting SD and touring all the locations where Niki de Saint Phalle's art is located. We started at Queen Califia's Magical Circle and continued to the convention center, Waterfront Park, Barbarella in La Jolla and ended our tour at Balboa Park. We asked the information booth if there was a gift store that might have an art book on the said artist. She said the one located inside Mingei. We headed over to take a look and sure enough they had a wonderful book on Niki. We browsed the other items while getting ice cold stares from the employees. Finally one mean lady approached us and asked us to leave because they don't allow dogs inside. We have a 14 pound doggie that went to all the locations above with no issues. In fact, he went everywhere with us during our whole trip and this place was the only place that has a no dogs policy. We left and didn't buy the book. Employees should make you feel welcome and this place is the complete opposite.

This is not a museum... downstairs has a cafe and shop, and a few displays of crafts. Upstairs has a rotating showroom for paid viewing. Its pretty lame and a 2 minute walkthrough.

Spectacular! I could spend all day here. I'll be excited to try their restaurant when it opens.

We came here on the third Tuesday of the month because several of the museums were free including this one. It was pretty awesome to see some of the old Archie comic books, and other books from our past. On display in another section of this museums were beautiful hand woven rugs from our ancestors. It was enjoyable to hear about the history and message the rugs represented everything from military influences to spirits ascending to the heavens. The details on the rugs were amazing to visualize the skill it took to create such a piece. In another section of the museums was Mexican Folk Art each piece crafted to perfection and very beautiful. Overall the museum was clean and spacious, staffed with knowledgeable employees who were friendly and helpful.

The Admission: $10 for adult. Dynamic exhibitions of art of the world and art of the people. Now the exhibit is about traditional dolls and toys of Japan and African bead and adornment. Very interesting! There is a coffee shop next door and a few tables in front of the shop. Perfect place to take a break after visiting the museum.

YES. I love everything about this museum. Stunning collections & artsy aloof staff with indistinguishable accents... Mingei is what art museum dreams are made of. But what makes this place a real pearl is its flawless installation and lighting - my god, it's a PERFECT soft & minimalistic sanctuary! Art presented so fabulously is a true treat. Just outside the Mingei walls is a much busier Balboa Park, but all that hustle is left at the door. Stepping into the museum's warm embrace feels trancelike. Balance is a standout. Subdued mid-century woodwork & punchy primary colors of Saint Phalle create such an interesting space. A slow saunter and at least a solid hour are both necessary to fully melt into the experience. My visit aligned with the Asafo Flags and Made In America collections. Both are beautiful & interesting. I'm looking forward to the return of the Japanese permanent collection in April - I'll be back again and again and again...

A fabulous juxtaposition of art and culture. The newly renovated gallery and library are both architectural masterpieces in their own right. So glad to see so much attention to detail and a variety of cultural art. You won't be disappointed with the Mingei shop that has some true treasures to take home and the cafe that serves excellent coffees and pastries.

A lot of unique pieces of art. I was surprised to see that most items in their collection was from the 20th century, but it was still a pleasure to see items from all over the world. The museum was a little smaller than I remember but they do have a good quality of items and have them displayed in such an organized way where you can view pieces from all sides.

Another smallish museum here in El Prado Park. The exhibits here can be good but when I visited this time it was not very interesting for me. The rotating exhibit was on Utensils and Japanese lacquer.

TIP: The key here is to check which exhibits are on display before you go because it can be boom or bust. In general, Mingei is a great museum that prides itself on displaying its selection in the most appealing way through its two-story, six-gallery showroom. Because they are an international museum, you will see changing displays of folk art and designs from all over the world. This makes Mingei a museum worth coming back to because there will always be something new to see. When I visited, their main exhibits were Mingei of Japan and Asafo Flags of Ghana. Mingei of Japan focused on objects that were made by hand for daily use. It's purpose was to show that the value of an object has little to do with the intrinsic material used, but much to do with the respect for the materials used and the care that goes into its design and formation. It was a beautiful and elaborate exhibit and the majority of my time was spent here. The Asafo Flags of Ghana showed colorful flags from West Africa exemplifying graphic folk imagery. This flags are displayed in times of great importance in Ghana. To me, this exhibit was underwhelming but that just might be because I am not fully aware of the significance and historic value behind them. To other people, this may be a masterpiece! They also had displays of traditional dolls of Japan and beads and adornment of Africa. Both were pretty neat. One thing that stood out to me was they had 4 glassworks of Dale Chihuly on display. Having gone to Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle earlier this year, I was pleasantly reminded of how amazing his art work was and was very happy to unexpectedly see it here too. Amazing! Again, check which exhibits are on display before you go. With the right exhibits, your experience here will be more than worthwhile!

One of the wonderful things about Balboa Park, (among so, so many things) are the museums. http://www.mcasd.org/?gclid=CjwKEAiA1o-zBRDomsWasvKh4S8SJADSlZkqzMRLRmq3y5HgI-cncaCQn-mQ1iw4_ARoWFOfFIoI6RoCOj_w_wcB http://www.museumofman.org/hours-and-admission/?gclid=CjwKEAiA1o-zBRDomsWasvKh4S8SJADSlZkqB8OGH-cdgrFeq1Ob2YS4x1Wn0DAj7qlispYN6doACBoCVZbw_wcB The plethora of these extraordinary displays on 2 floors of different cultures, our USA's past, or technology personified is memorizing, and the links above I hope you Yelpers will find helpful when descending upon them.. Also, the first Tuesday of every month offer up free museum days to San Diego residents http://www.rhfleet.org/events/residents-free-tuesdays?gclid=CjwKEAiA1o-zBRDomsWasvKh4S8SJADSlZkqWg8yCRU25KXL05SNBu2D5XmiDhzAuzsYwqsjGl1iZhoCLRDw_wcB I never have a problem getting in for free since Marty is a resident of San Diego, and I just tell them I just moved here, haven't gotten my new license & make light enough gab that they just wave me in; not sure if they just want to get me out of their face, or just being kind. Yet, either way, I get to go & experience the best of the best at selected museums-for free! This particular museum had (as my photos reflect) a very well organized, aesthetically pleasing, authentic ambiance & information that had us inside for over 2 hours. The Mingei International Museum staff too are very helpful, & are packed with information and too, there is always something for the kids to touch & climb on; hey, they get bored, so it's nice to have that deterrent that they are able to utilize, without pulling the arm of a mummy! So treat yourself & yours to a visit, my last visit was the Automotive Museum (review coming soon) as a surprise from Marty, I love classic cars like my Father, so that was a treat. Yet this, was exceptional & I highly recommend a visit if it is free or not. Avoid them during the summer, spawn is abundantly everywhere, either on a field trip, or from visitors. So much so, that moving about, taking photos & attempting to enjoy them is virtually impossible. I swear, some parents need a condom machine in their bedrooms, and I feel for the scholastic staff too for the field trips they must endure as I notice more & more the lack of interest in museums falling as kids would rather be playing a video game or the like (overheard many times when we visit)-pretty sad. Now, it may not be as eclectic as this, but then again, you never know! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRloSmzWBOg

Learn to better communicate with each other and have better accommodations to those with disabilities. I went to see the Piñata exhibit for Valentine's Day with my girlfriend and we brought her ESA. My girlfriend has diagnosed anxiety and a letter for her ESA. We check in at the front and the receptionist asks if the dog is a service animal. We responded that she's an ESA. The guy said that was fine. My girlfriend asks if she needs to give a copy of her letter for records, and the guy responds no. And denied it He motions towards the elevators as a nice gesture so that my girlfriend doesn't need to walk up the stairs. We go upstairs and start look at the exhibition. Maybe less than 5 minutes goes by and a female employee with brown hair walks up to us and asks if the dog is a service animal. My girlfriend says that she's an ESA and that we already let the gentleman at the desk know. My girlfriend also offers to give a copy of the letter. She denies the letter, accepts the verbal answer and walks away. We start looking at more of the exhibition and about 10 minutes later another female employee with blonde hair comes up to us and says that unfortunately my girlfriends ESA is not allowed. My girlfriend explains that she is now the third person who has already asked us about the ESA. She already explained the situation to the front receptionist, the brown haired employee and now her. Eventually the blonde hair employee allows for us to stay in the exhibition if and only if she carries the ESA. My girlfriend who recently had surgery and isn't allowed to carry more than 10 pounds asks me to carry the ESA which I do. We start to walk for less than a foot trying to enjoy the art but now the experience is ruined and we leave. It's frustrating to want to enjoy art that is part of OUR culture and despite having the tools to be able to calm her anxiety, my girlfriend is still questioned as to why the ESA is upstairs in the first place. Would you ask someone in a wheel chair to try and walk or check in their wheel chair at the front if the exhibition is packed with people? No.

SERIOUSLY! I can not say enough good things about this museum. It's the first museum I've walked into as an adult and not just field trips as a young child, so I was actually appreciative of the artwork and the space I was in. I ended up at the Mingei due to oh shit...a class field trip...Now that I think about it but like I said, I can appreciate the arts now. ANYWAY! The museum kindly opened a half hour earlier for my college class to attend. We were studying mesoamerican and pre columbian art as well as Native American art. We visited while their mesoamerican/pre columbian collection was still on display. We had a personal tour guide. I wish I got the docents name because we ended up bonding! She even showed me videos on her phone of a Navajo weaver that she thought I would be interested in! None of my classmates really gave a shit so I was the only one asking questions, so it was like I had my own personal guide lol Ok so back to the art. I really enjoyed The Weaving a Path exhibit. Learned a lot about Navajo women weavers. The shadow puppets exhibit was cool and OMG they have a small section of Traditional Mexican art such as alebrijes from the 18th century!!!! Día de los muertos figurines and this amazingggggg Huichol beading horse. Home girl aka docent told me a husband and wife from Nayarit traveled to San Diego to create it from a recycled carousel horse and beads. It took them 2 weeks. The small section on bead history was interesting as well. I had nooo idea how special beads are before attending. The staff is very knowledgeable and they seem to genuinely care and be interested when asked questions. My experience at this place was so magical that I walked out, a different person. My class left after an hour and I was there for 4 hours, even the professor had left lol We have to wire a paper on an artifact from our visit to the museum. I took a picture of the piece I wanted to write on but forgot to take a picture of the information label. Tweeted them I needed help with a title and they came through real quick with a picture of the label! Would highly recommend! **FREE entrance to San Diego locals on the third Tuesday of the month**

The one of many things I love about this museum is that the exhibit have always been excellent. From surfboards to Jewish heritage art to William Hawkins and etc. I am always blown away by the quality of work that goes into the perfection of displaying the different art forms. The creative selection of what to display is first class and so very impressive. The gift shop is one of the best I have ever seen.

Very interesting and enjoyable museum. I like the concept and guiding philosophy. This is really the "Museum of Us." Don't miss your chance to sit on an authentic Nakashima. I look forward to going back for future exhibits. Unlike some of the other reviewers here, I found the staff to be friendly as well as diverse. And they have the best restrooms in Balboa Park!

I write this only to say that it's a wonderful museum with a friendly staff. Prices, exhibits, ect change constantly - so it's ill advised to comment on that which is not static over time. However, for the current price of admission it's a great piece to a day at Balboa Park. You can, as they say, exit through the gift shop - which has some good stuff, not to cliche, gimmicky or touristy. But it's an excellent place to wander through for an extended period of time.

While not something that a student of the world-recognized cultural icons might find of significant interest with its focus on the folksie, or "people's", artwork, this museum offers a delightful insight into a quasi utilitarian, quasi dramatic form that is not only lovely to look at but functional to use as well. And I always have a warm spot for functional art. Like surfboards (...must...not...digress, will...talk...for...hours...) I have expensive tastes though and even with a thousand other international articles to marvel at, I made a bee line to the richly detailed teak (?) dining room set on the second level and with wild imagination on full tilt boogie, pictured a magnificent dinner party with ambassadors of all the peaceful and advanced nations delighting in the finest fare and champagne as they solved all the world's ills, from this very room, with taste, culture and aplomb. Oh well. As well-intentioned as my dreams may be, they do border on the hopeless. Some of this exhibit depicts the beautiful while other examples portray the inane, grotesque and "WTF?" All of it, though, represents some impressionistic interpretation of cultural normality of a country. Now If California were to try this, they'd need something like the Hollywood Bowl to house the display. We be eclectic to the max (and have so many cool surfboards). So If you're going to visit Balboa Park, the Mingei Museum is a must. You just never know what them dern fereners are gonna dream up next....and ideas begin with dreams. And ideas can take us anywhere.

I really like the Mingei. It is a small museum but I love constantly changing exhibits. The idea is that this is supposed to craft, folk art, and art that is handmade and used by people. Whatever that means, the exhibits are fascinating, the scale is human, and the museum is beautiful. I was there today and their are exhibits on musical instruments from around the world, animals as portrayed in folk art around the world (I love elephants done by people who have never seen an elephant), and cutting edge crafts.

Smallish museum with exhibits from different areas of the world. Not bad for the $10 general admission fee. Specially liked the wood and copper tjaps on the 2nd floor. The place can keep you occupied for about 45mins to an hour depending on how fast you go thru the exhibits. Docent tours are available as well if you would like a more in depth explanation of the current exhibits. :)

The Collector's Gallery is an elegant way to call a gift shop. Why? Because in reality, people shopping there are not just buying things, trinkets and objects to get or give. They normally believe in the artists and crafsmen and women behind each piece. I really like that in such a small place you get a glimpse of the folk art (in many cases handmade) that is so wearable, useful and beautiful, such as scarves made in India or Mexican dia de los muertos types of crafts as other SoCal adornments like car plates showing loving messages. This is a very classy store. My favorite part is all the silver jewelry, I think the gallery is very well curated, which makes me go very often to check what is new. Also from time to time they have one of those weekends with special sales or promotional items. Who says you can not be a collector for yourself?

Impressive. This is an excellent example of use of space, placement, and light. I instantly felt the vibe of openness & it's clean lines and contemporary design fosters calm anticipation. The Surf Craft Exhibit was amazing. One doesn't need to be a surfer or understand surf culture to appreciate this exhibit of functional art. Appreciation is just one of the things I left this exhibit feeling. http://www.mingei.org/exhibition/surf-craft/ The exhibit is shown in a unique perspective: in the context of Soetsu Yanagi's mingei (Japanese folk art movement) philosophy of the importance of craft. The gift store is cool as well. The $12 fee is well worth it. Highly suggested.

Went here finally last weekend. They had the "Fisch Out of Water" exhibit an the "Sonabai" exhibit. I was REALLY impressed. The Sonabai exhibit was done beautifully and Sonabai's story was truly inspirational. About a woman in India who reached within to find the light during a very long and trying time of darkness. and with her artistic talent, she made her whole village prosperous! The other exhibit "Fisch Out of Water" was super cool in my opinion. The artist Arlene Fisch crocheted these beautiful jelly fish and sea anemones out of wire and using vibrant colors...she did hundreds of these and they hung them up above you and put them in other places of the museum. AMAZING and beautiful. Spoke to a docent there who was quite knowledgeable and all the folks working there were very nice and helpful. Well, anyways, this docent was telling me they work with certain schools that might be in the more impoverish sectors of San Diego, and they mix these kids up with other schools to create groups that go to museum and learn about other artists that had really tough times to show them that there are other folks who make it through adversity and create beautiful art from it. They mix the kids up from other schools so there is no "clicks" or "popularity" pressures so to speak. I thought this was SUPER cool. Put some of these exhibit pics on Yelp. So GREAT first impression and I will be keeping tabs on this place!