The CJM

The Contemporary Jewish Museum’s celebrated building, designed by world-renowned architect Daniel Libeskind, has served as an artistic, community, and cultural generator since its opening fifteen years ago. This exhibition delves into the deep symbolism imbued in this iconic building, which once served as a power substation and has been home to The CJM since 2008. Inspired by the Hebrew phrase l’chaim (“to life”), used most often as a toast to mark moments of togetherness and celebration, the architecture of The CJM’s building embodies the values, traditions, and ideas The Museum explores within its walls. L'Chaim: Celebrating Our Building at 15 explores the multitude of symbols layered in the space we inhabit, unlocking the meaning behind its dynamic energy and allowing all who visit to experience the space anew.

On the occasion of this anniversary year, The CJM is proud to celebrate the life that our building brings to the Jewish community of the Bay Area and beyond. Join us in toasting l’chaim to the next fifteen years!

This exhibition is included in your general admission ticket. Become a Member to receive free admission. All visitors are required to book their timed tickets online in advance to facilitate a contactless visit to The Museum.

View accessible exhibition text, or explore more accessibility resources at The Museum, below.

L'Chaim: Celebrating Our Building at 15 also celebrates fifteen years of our Teen Art Connect (TAC) program, which invites Bay Area teens of diverse backgrounds to work as paid interns. Since The CJM first opened its doors, TAC interns have led architecture tours of The Museum. In 2023 and 2024, they produced audio recordings of their reflections on The Museum’s architecture, which can be accessed through QR codes in front of each space. Visit The Museum to listen to the recordings in situ, or click below to listen online.

Support for L’Chaim: Celebrating Our Building at 15 is generously provided by Grants for the Arts.

Header Image

Photo: Bruce Damonte