DRIFT's Drone Swarm Illuminates LACMA's New Zumthor-Designed Galleries

On April 18th, 2026, the artist group DRIFT unveiled its drone installation, Franchise Freedom, which lit up the skies above the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. This event celebrated the inauguration of LACMA's new David Geffen Galleries, crafted by Peter Zumthor. The installation showcased more than 1,000 drones, choreographed in formations reminiscent of starling murmurations, producing a mesmerizing light display. DRIFT's creation stems from over 20 years of exploration into collective behavior, with drones autonomously interacting with one another. The galleries, stretching along Wilshire Boulevard, highlight a theme of decentralized organization. The occasion fostered a conversation between the static nature of architecture and the fluidity of the installation. Contributors like Pablo Garcia and Albert Azouz provided photography and video documentation.