Staff Reductions at the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco
The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco, which include the de Young Museum in Golden Gate Park and the Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park, have announced layoffs as part of a broader effort to address financial challenges. According to a statement from the organization’s CEO, twelve positions will be eliminated, representing 5% of the total staff. This decision is part of an ongoing strategy to “safeguard the long-term health and sustainability” of the institutions.
Director and CEO Thomas P. Campbell emphasized that the decision was not made lightly. He stated that the move followed months of scenario planning, rigorous financial analysis, and extensive discussions with the museum’s executive leadership and trustees. The staffing reductions are part of broader budget tightening measures aimed at addressing a projected budget gap.
Impact of Reduced Tourism
Campbell also highlighted the impact of a prolonged period of softening tourism in San Francisco. Attendance at the museums has dropped nearly 20% compared to pre-pandemic levels. Despite efforts to maintain high-quality programming and aggressive fundraising goals, the decline in visitors has placed pressure on the institutions’ finances.
The museums continue to offer free access to certain exhibits and programs. For example, both the de Young Museum and the Legion of Honor provide free admission for residents of the nine Bay Area counties on Saturdays. Additionally, general admission is free every first Tuesday of the month. However, special exhibitions require full-price tickets.
Commitment to Mission and Community
Campbell expressed deep appreciation for the contributions of the affected staff members, calling them “the heart of our museums.” He acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation and thanked those who have served the institutions over the years.
Despite the challenges, the CEO remains committed to the museums’ mission of connecting visitors to art. “Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and unite communities – particularly during periods of change,” he said.
Exhibitions and Events
Visitors can still explore a variety of exhibitions at the museums. At the de Young Museum, the exhibit Paul McCartney Photographs 1963-64: Eyes of the Storm is on display through October 5, 2025. This exhibition features rare photographs taken by the iconic musician during his early career.
For fans of Japanese comics and graphic novels, the upcoming Art of Manga exhibit will be on display from September 2025 through January 2026. This exhibit explores the artistic and cultural significance of manga.
At the Legion of Honor, the Ferlinghetti for San Francisco exhibit opens this weekend and will run through March 2026. The exhibit highlights the work of Lawrence Ferlinghetti, a poet, activist, and co-founder of City Lights Bookstore. It showcases his talents as a painter, draftsman, and printmaker.
Visitors can also see Rodin’s famous sculpture The Thinker, a 1904 cast bronze piece that is part of the Legion of Honor’s permanent collection.
Supporting the Museums
The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco remain a vital part of the city’s cultural landscape. Visitors are encouraged to support the institutions by attending their exhibitions and engaging with their programs. Through these efforts, the museums continue to fulfill their mission of bringing art and community together.
