Timken Museum of Art

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Timken Museum of Art World-class fine art collection of European & American masters, and Russian icons. Always free! Designed by San Diego architect John Mock for Frank L.
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Affectionately known as the “jewel box” of fine art, the Timken is home to the Putnam Foundation’s world-class collection of European and American masterpieces and Russian icons. Artists represented include Rembrandt, Rubens, Fragonard, Bierstadt, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, John Singleton Copley, and Eastman Johnson. Hope and Associates, the museum building is considered one of the most important examples of mid-century southern California modernism, and one of the finest regional examples of the International Style in the United States.

10/08/2026

Join Timken Docent and USD Professor Emerita of Biblical Studies Dr. Florence Gillman for this virtual talk exploring the history, art, and archaeology of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Due to mid-20th-century and ongoing archaeological investigations under the current St. Peter's Basilica, vast data has emerged about the underlying 4th-century AD structure known as Old St. Peter's, as well as the structures that preceded it. Central to these investigations has been the quest to find the grave of St. Peter. This virtual talk will survey the fascinating buildings and art which have been exposed.

09/24/2026

During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic was the most prosperous nation in Europe. Art, military strength, science, and trade were at its peak. At this time, a break from monarchist and Catholic cultural traditions during the Protestant Reformation allowed for the decline in focus on religious paintings. In addition, a burgeoning middle class sought out new genres of art which helped to enhance their homes. These artworks also reflected their tastes and interests. Cityscapes, landscapes, portraiture, and still life painting grew ever more popular.

Just six days until we take the Timken on the road. ✨On September 17, join us for a special day at Pomona College — a gu...
09/11/2026

Just six days until we take the Timken on the road. ✨

On September 17, join us for a special day at Pomona College — a guided visit to the Benton Museum of Art, a buffet lunch at historic Frary Dining Hall, an up-close encounter with José Clemente Orozco's Prometheus (called "the greatest painting in North America" by Jackson Po***ck), and a tour of the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA).

Round-trip luxury coach transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a boxed dinner with w**e for the ride home — all included.

$195 Members | $215 Non-Members
Reserve your seat at the link in bio. Limited seats remain!

09/10/2026

The Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid offers a remarkable survey of Western art, tracing its development from the Renaissance through the dawn of the twentieth century. Assembled from an extraordinary private collection, the museum’s holdings address key moments in art history and provide a vital counterpoint to Spain’s national collections.

This docent-led virtual talk will explore a selection of Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum collection masterworks that illuminate how artists across time grappled with belief, everyday experience, and the emergence of modern life.

🍾 An invitation. Trivia Night at the Timken is one of our most beloved evenings of the year, and this year we're extendi...
09/04/2026

🍾 An invitation. Trivia Night at the Timken is one of our most beloved evenings of the year, and this year we're extending a warm welcome to our closest supporters. Become a Patron-level member before September 27, and we'll reserve a private table of four in your name. A $300 value, absolutely free. Link in bio.📚

Not a member? Not a problem. Non-member tickets are available too.

09/03/2026
What makes a museum collection so special?🌟 Join us for a FREE virtual talk as we explore highlights from the Thyssen-Bo...
09/02/2026

What makes a museum collection so special?🌟

Join us for a FREE virtual talk as we explore highlights from the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, from Renaissance masterpieces to modern works of art. Discover the fascinating artists, stories, and ideas behind some of the museum’s most memorable pieces.

Register through the link in our bio and join us online—we can’t wait to explore this incredible collection with you!

📚 Every year, this is the room. W**e, charcuterie, and friendly competition among fellow art lovers, one Sunday evening ...
08/29/2026

📚 Every year, this is the room. W**e, charcuterie, and friendly competition among fellow art lovers, one Sunday evening in the galleries. Trivia Night returns September 27. Patron-level members enjoy a complimentary table of four. Join before the 27th and yours is on us. Link in bio.🥂

All are welcome. Non-member tickets are available for purchase as well.

**eAndArt

Why were books once worth their weight in gold?Before the printing press, books were among the most luxurious objects in...
08/21/2026

Why were books once worth their weight in gold?

Before the printing press, books were among the most luxurious objects in Europe. Adorned with shimmering gold leaf, brilliant pigments, and breathtaking illustrations, illuminated manuscripts transformed every page into a work of art.

Join us for a free virtual talk as we uncover the fascinating history behind these dazzling masterpieces and discover how they shaped the art of the late Medieval and Renaissance periods.

Register through the link in our bio and join us online–we can't wait to explore these extraordinary treasures with you!

🥂 Save the date. Trivia Night at the Timken returns Sunday, September 27, an evening of art, wit, and w**e among fellow ...
08/21/2026

🥂 Save the date. Trivia Night at the Timken returns Sunday, September 27, an evening of art, wit, and w**e among fellow cultural enthusiasts. Patron-level members reserve a private table of four, absolutely free. Not a Patron yet? Join before September 27 and your table is on us, a $300 value. Link in bio to join.📚

Not yet a Timken member? Non-member tickets are available for purchase as well.

Address

1500 El Prado, Balboa Park
San Diego, CA
92101

Opening Hours

Wednesday 10am - 5pm
Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday 10am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 5pm
Sunday 12pm - 5pm

Telephone

+16192395548

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