Los Angeles Artists Persist Through Wildfire Devastation as Frieze LA Proceeds

Two major wildfires—the Palisades and Eaton Fires—ravaged Los Angeles on January 7, causing widespread destruction. The blazes consumed over 35,000 acres, destroyed more than 12,000 structures, displaced 200,000 residents, and claimed 31 lives. Artist Kelly Akashi lost her home and studio, with only her Skutt ceramic kiln surviving the flames. Despite the devastation, many affected artists advocated for Frieze LA to continue as scheduled in February. The city's largest art fair faced potential cancellation due to the ongoing crisis. Post-fair reports indicated successful sales, including Maia Cruz Palileo's sold-out solo presentation at David Kordansky Gallery. Palileo exhibited over a dozen paintings, ceramic sculptures, and works on paper. Artists emphasized the importance of promoting and selling their work despite losing studios, artworks, and retirement collections.