Dodgers Victory Boosts Star-Studded LACMA Art + Film Gala with Erivo, Lucas
The 14th annual Art + Film Gala at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) was an unforgettable event. Held on a Saturday night, the gala celebrated renowned artist Mary Corse and filmmaker Ryan Coogler. The night was infused with excitement, especially as the Los Angeles Dodgers engaged in a thrilling World Series game against the Toronto Blue Jays.
High Spirits Amidst a Baseball Game
As LACMA director Michael Govan addressed the audience, the Dodgers were trailing by one point in the eighth inning. Guests at the gala, dressed in elegant gowns and tuxedos, discreetly watched the game updates on their phones. The atmosphere shifted dramatically when Miguel Rojas tied the game with a home run in the ninth inning, prompting cheers throughout the venue.
Afterward, Govan returned to the stage, playfully suggesting that LACMA had engineered the Dodgers’ victory that night. He noted the significance of the event, saying, “This is a celebration that can only happen in L.A., where art, film, and creativity are deeply intertwined.” His words resonated with the gathered celebrities and local officials, reinforcing Los Angeles’ status as a cultural epicenter.
Record-Breaking Fundraising
The event achieved a remarkable milestone by raising $6.5 million in support of LACMA and its ongoing programs. Co-chaired by Leonardo DiCaprio and LACMA trustee Eva Chow, the gala attracted numerous notable personalities, including:
- Dustin Hoffman
- Cynthia Erivo
- Cindy Crawford
- Queen Latifah
- Angela Bassett
- Lorde
- Demi Moore
- Hannah Einbinder
- Charlie Hunnam
- Elle Fanning
The event also saw the presence of local elected officials such as U.S. Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, L.A. County Supervisors Holly Mitchell and Lindsey Horvath, and West Hollywood Councilmember John M. Erickson.
Acknowledging Cultural Contributions
During the gala, gratitude was expressed towards past honorees, including George Lucas and Judy Baca. Various leaders from local arts institutions, such as the Hammer Museum and MOCA, also attended.
The New David Geffen Galleries
A focal point of the evening was the announcement of LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries, a Peter Zumthor-designed building opening in April. This facility will house LACMA’s 150,000-object permanent collection. Govan remarked on the monumental gift to Los Angeles, thanking David Geffen for his generosity.
The evening was bittersweet as Govan paid tribute to Elaine Wynn, a former LACMA board co-chair who passed away earlier in the year. Her significant contributions included a $50 million donation towards the new building, with part of the gallery dedicated to her memory.
Cultural and Artistic Impact
In a nod to community engagement, the gala also marked a pivotal moment. Earlier that week, LACMA employees announced the formation of “LACMA United,” a union representing over 300 staff members from various departments. Despite the backdrop of union discussions, the gala focused on celebrating the arts and the achievements of honorees Corse and Coogler.
Star-Studded Performances
The night concluded with a performance by Doja Cat, enchanting the crowd under the stars and the new galleries. Guests, including L.A. Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, reflected on the importance of community solidarity amidst the cultural festivities.
This year’s Art + Film Gala perfectly encapsulated the intertwining of art and culture in Los Angeles, celebrating not only the achievements of individuals but the spirit of a city dedicated to creative expression.
