Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life

The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life, a museum and research center at the University of California, Berkeley, is one of the world’s preeminent Jewish museums. The Magnes connects people of all backgrounds with the history, vibrancy, and diversity of Jewish life around the world through its collections-based exhibitions and programs.

In 1962, the Judah L. Magnes Museum was founded by Seymour and Rebecca Camhi Fromer, becoming one of the first Jewish museums in the United States. Reflecting the guiding concerns of American Jewry after the Holocaust, the Berkeley museum focused on preserving the legacy of vanishing communities around the world. In 2010, the musuem was acquired by the  University of California, Berkeley and became the Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life. Learn more about the history of The Magnes.

Mission

As a museum and research center at UC Berkeley, the Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life preserves, studies, and interprets its holdings to generate new knowledge and understanding of Jewish cultures with and for its academic and public communities.

Vision

The Magnes envisions a society that seeks common ground while honoring cultural differences and embraces the diversity of Jewish life around the world.

Values

Community - The Magnes fosters a sense of belonging through collaboration and appreciation of diverse perspectives.
Stewardship - The Magnes manages its collections and other resources to ensure the museumʼs ongoing cultural relevance and financial sustainability.
Discovery - The Magnes creates and facilitates collections-based opportunities for research, teaching, learning, and creative expression.