LACMA Commissions Lauren Halsey Sphinx and Relief for David Geffen Galleries
LACMA has commissioned Lauren Halsey to create two artworks for the David Geffen Galleries, opening to the public in 2026. The first is a 10-foot reclining sphinx installed in a gallery that explores cross-influences of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Nubian culture. The second is a wall relief in an adjacent gallery focused on Egyptian creation stories and funerary traditions. Halsey's work blends ancient Egyptian iconography, Afrofuturism, and imagery from her South Los Angeles neighborhood. The sphinx anchors a light-filled space with a view to Wilshire Boulevard, while the relief ties early Egyptian imagery to contemporary Los Angeles. The commissions are part of LACMA's 50 Works 50 Weeks series highlighting iconic artworks in the new building.
Key facts
- LACMA commissioned Lauren Halsey for two artworks in the David Geffen Galleries.
- The David Geffen Galleries open to the public in 2026.
- One artwork is a 10-foot reclining sphinx in a gallery with Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Nubian themes.
- The sphinx is placed in a light-filled space with a view to Wilshire Boulevard.
- The second artwork is a wall relief in a gallery about Egyptian creation stories and funerary traditions.
- Halsey's work incorporates ancient Egyptian iconography, Afrofuturism, and South Los Angeles imagery.
- The wall relief ties early Egyptian imagery to contemporary Los Angeles.
- The commissions are part of the 50 Works 50 Weeks series.
Entities
Artists
- Lauren Halsey
Institutions
- LACMA
- David Geffen Galleries
Locations
- Los Angeles
- South Los Angeles
- Wilshire Boulevard