Due to financial problems, the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco will close its galleries for at least a year starting next month.
On Wednesday, the museum’s Board of Directors announced that the galleries at 736 Mission Street in south Market would be closed beginning December 15. A “phased workforce reduction” over the coming months was also announced.
Tom Kasten, chairman of the Board of Trustees, and museum director Kerry King said in a joint statement that the museum faces a “challenging financial landscape,” noting that attendance and support have not fully recovered since the pandemic.
“In Judaism, Shabbat – or the Sabbath – is a time of rest, an essential moment carved out of the week for restoration and renewal. Throughout Jewish culture, there are countless references to moments of pause as a means of rejuvenation. will enable innovative ideas and experimentation, as well as exploring new ways to reach a wider audience,” the statement said.
King said: “It is far better for us to take the necessary steps toward restructuring now, rather than wait until we run out of options. This decision does not come without significant pain, as it will impact our team of extraordinary and highly dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to fulfill the museum’s mission.”
“More than fifteen years ago, a dedicated group took The CJM from a small gallery space to the iconic institution it is today,” said Kasten. “The museum’s mandate is as important now as ever, and our current goal is to design a sustainable model that not only maintains but also enhances its impact. I am confident that this will be seen in the years to come as a crucial chapter in The Museum’s journey.”
The museum’s statement did not specify how many employees would be laid off. No reopening date has been announced, but the museum’s space remains available for event rentals.
In the meantime, the Contemporary Jewish Museum is offering free admission ahead of its planned closure.
