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Peter Zumthor's David Geffen Galleries Open at LACMA with Ocean-Themed Inaugural Installation

architecture-design · 2026-04-17

On April 16, 2026, the David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) will be inaugurated, featuring a design by architect Peter Zumthor. This structure, which rises above Wilshire Boulevard, boasts a dynamic layout and will debut with an exhibition centered on the ocean, presenting pieces from artists such as Diego Rivera, Henri Matisse, and Betye Saar. The galleries will benefit from natural lighting, include curtains by Reiko Sudo, and feature a plaza displaying commissioned works by Shio Kusaka and Pedro Reyes. The design emphasizes energy efficiency and utilizes warm-toned concrete. Future offerings will encompass Erewhon at LACMA, a wine bar, and the LACMA Store. A Block Party is scheduled for June 20, 2026, featuring tours and food options.

Key facts

  • The David Geffen Galleries opened at LACMA on April 16, 2026.
  • Architect Peter Zumthor, a Pritzker Prize winner, designed the building.
  • The structure hovers above Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles.
  • The inaugural installation uses the ocean as a connective theme.
  • Artists featured include Henri Matisse, Betye Saar, Francis Bacon, Diego Rivera, Katsushika Hokusai, Do Ho Suh, and Lauren Halsey.
  • Textile interventions by Reiko Sudo filter light in the galleries.
  • Plaza spaces feature works by Pedro Reyes, Shio Kusaka, and Auguste Rodin.
  • A Block Party celebration is scheduled for June 20, 2026.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

Locations

  • Los Angeles
  • United States
  • Wilshire Boulevard
  • Miracle Mile
  • Southern California
  • New York
  • Hancock Park
  • Seoul
  • South Korea
  • Gyeongbok Palace
  • Pacific Ocean
  • Indian Ocean
  • Atlantic Ocean
  • Mediterranean Sea
  • East London
  • United Kingdom
  • Milan
  • Italy
  • Senegal
  • California
  • Tokyo

Sources