San Diego Museum of Art lays off 11 staff, including guards and registrars, amid US$13 million deficit

The San Diego Museum of Art laid off 11 employees on 5 August 2026, including a guard, two registrars, two preparators and an exhibition manager, The Art Newspaper reported. COO Kari Kovach cited declining federal grants, rising costs and a restructure. The San Diego Union-Tribune reported a growing US$13 million deficit. Paid parking in Balboa Park from January 2026 cut museum attendance 34%.