Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco to Close for One Year Due to Financial Struggles

The museum will lay off a significant portion of its staff and reassess its operations amid declining attendance and revenue.

The Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco will close on December 15 for at least one year, citing financial challenges and reduced support since the pandemic.
The museum plans to cut its staff from 30 to 11 employees as part of a strategic pause aimed at ensuring long-term sustainability.
Attendance and revenue have both dropped by 50% since the museum reopened in 2021, prompting a need to rethink its operational model.
During the closure, the museum's building will remain available for event rentals, and all exhibitions will be closed, with art returned to lenders.
Museum leadership is considering all options, including possibly selling the building, as they work to redefine the museum's role in the community.