Two cities vie for attention on where George Lucas should have his $1 billion museum to hold his broad collection of 40,000 paintings, illustrations, personal interests and film-related memorabilia. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art has stirred some friendly rivalry between San Francisco and Los Angeles.
For a decade, Lucas has been 'shopping' for the perfect spot and tried realizing the building of the museum but legal issues have arisen and pushed back the project. Last week, he decided to narrow down their search between the two cities.
Together with his art team and consultants, they will reveal which among the Californian metropolitans will house his memorabilia that is said to have worth $400million. Chinese architect Ma Yansong will design the center based loosely on the Sydney Opera House.
"This is the largest civic gift in American history," LA Mayor Eric Garcetti was reported as saying. "Other individuals backed this notion with their own added statements. 'I think Los Angeles is the natural home for it."
However, these opinions have pushed San Francisco to contest to the idea. If San Francisco wins, Lucas will have an island to himself.
The development will include $6billion investment that consists of apartments and hotels. The city challenged LA that Lucas spent most of his time there as Lucasfilm was based in the city before selling it to Disney.
Six months ago, the 72-year old director has eyed Chicago to be the home of his museum. However, activists have opposed to having Lucas' museum in front of the Chicago fountain.
Once decided and all will be done, visitors get to see the director's collection of 10,000 paintings and illustrations which include Norman Rockwells and works and French artist Edgar Degas to American artist Keith Haring.
Moreover, the museum will house illustrations of Beatrix Potter' children's books like Peter Rabbit, his cousin Benjamin Bunny, sister Flopsy and more. Jean de Brunhoff's Babar will also get to display in the museum.
Anticipated construction completion will be in 2020.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
