On a vibrant Saturday night, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) hosted its 14th annual Art + Film Gala, a star-studded event that seamlessly blended the realms of art and cinema. As museum director Michael Govan took to the podium, excitement was palpable, not just for the gala but also for the ongoing World Series game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays. The Dodgers trailed by one point in the eighth inning, and while there was no giant screen in the lavish tent, attendees discreetly checked their phones, balancing the thrill of the game with the evening's festivities.
The atmosphere transformed dramatically when Dodgers player Miguel Rojas hit a game-tying home run at the top of the ninth inning, igniting cheers throughout the audience. As Govan returned to the stage to honor the evening's distinguished guests, artist Mary Corse and director Ryan Coogler, the earlier excitement of the game had settled into a respectful silence, with phones now tucked away. “Go Dodgers!” Govan exclaimed, humorously attributing the win to LACMA’s efforts for the evening. This moment encapsulated the essence of Los Angeles, where art, film, and the spirit of community converge.
The Art + Film Gala exemplified the unique cultural landscape of Los Angeles, a city where creativity flourishes. Govan remarked, “This is a celebration that can only happen in L.A.—where art, film, and creativity are deeply intertwined.” The night was not only about honoring Corse and Coogler but also served as a platform to raise a record-breaking $6.5 million for LACMA and its various programs.
Co-hosted by Leonardo DiCaprio and LACMA trustee Eva Chow, the gala attracted a diverse array of celebrities, including Dustin Hoffman, Cynthia Erivo, Cindy Crawford, Queen Latifah, and Angela Bassett. Local officials such as U.S. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove and L.A. County Supervisors Holly Mitchell and Lindsey Horvath also graced the event, highlighting the importance of culture in local governance.
A heartfelt tribute was paid to previous gala honorees in attendance, including renowned artists such as Mark Bradford and George Lucas. The event also welcomed leaders from various local arts institutions, including Zoe Ryan from the Hammer Museum and Cameron Shaw from the California African American Museum. The backdrop of the gala featured LACMA’s upcoming David Geffen Galleries, a stunning 110,000-square-foot building designed by Peter Zumthor, set to open in April and house the museum’s vast permanent collection.
“Every day I’m in that little building behind installing thousands of artworks,” Govan shared, generating excitement among attendees. He expressed gratitude to David Geffen, whose generosity played a pivotal role in the museum's future. Geffen was seated among the glittering crowd, alongside Disney CEO Bob Iger and DiCaprio, who had recently attended a World Series game.
The evening also served as a poignant reminder of the late Elaine Wynn, a former LACMA board co-chair whose significant contributions included a $50 million donation towards the new galleries. Govan announced the northern half of the building would be named the Elaine Wynn wing, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire future generations.
While the gala celebrated artistic achievements, it was also marked by the recent announcement of the formation of LACMA United, a union representing over 300 museum employees. Despite the pressing issues, the atmosphere remained focused on the night’s celebration and the vital funds being raised to support LACMA’s mission.
The gala culminated with heartfelt speeches from guests of honor Corse and Coogler, who shared their personal journeys in the arts. Govan introduced them as “artists whose brilliant groundbreaking work challenges us to see the world differently.” The night concluded on a high note with an electrifying performance by Doja Cat, lighting up the outdoor stage beneath the architectural marvel of the new galleries.
The Art + Film Gala not only celebrated artistic excellence but also reinforced Los Angeles's position as a global cultural hub, where the worlds of art and cinema beautifully intertwine.
