Frieze Los Angeles 2026 Opens with Strong Sales Led by Njideka Akunyili Crosby Work
The Frieze Los Angeles art fair commenced its 2026 edition on February 26th at Santa Monica Airport, beginning with VIP previews. Early transactions were notable, with David Zwirner gallery selling a mixed-media piece by Njideka Akunyili Crosby for $2.8 million, marking the highest reported sale. The event attracted significant attendance from collectors, museum officials, and entertainment industry figures, including actors Emma Watson and Christoph Waltz. Galleries reported robust demand across established and emerging artists, particularly in the Focus section for newer galleries. Dealer Thaddaeus Ropac noted positive energy and strong institutional representation. The fair serves as a key indicator for the West Coast art market.
Key facts
- Frieze Los Angeles 2026 opened on February 26, 2026 at Santa Monica Airport
- Njideka Akunyili Crosby's mixed-media work sold for $2.8 million through David Zwirner gallery
- The fair attracted prominent collectors, museum leaders, and entertainment figures including Emma Watson and Christoph Waltz
- Strong sales were reported for both established and emerging artists
- Dealer Thaddaeus Ropac commented on positive attendance and energy
Entities
Artists
- Njideka Akunyili Crosby
- Lauren Halsey
- Hayv Kahraman
- Wallace Berman
- Raymond Saunders
- Veronica Fernandez
- Ash Roberts
Institutions
- David Zwirner
- Frieze Los Angeles
- LACMA
- Felix Art Fair
- Morán Morán
- Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
- Artsy
- Vielmetter Los Angeles
- Michael Kohn Gallery
- Anat Ebgi
- Francis Gallery
- Hauser & Wirth
Locations
- Los Angeles
- Santa Monica
- United States
- Santa Monica Airport
- South Central
- Hollywood
- City of Angels
- California