A New Era for All Ages: LACMA Celebrates the David Geffen Galleries with NexGenLA Festivities
The transformation of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is no longer just a vision it is a lived experience. Following the landmark ribbon cutting of the David Geffen Galleries, the museum has transitioned into a week of exclusive programming designed to bridge the gap between world-class architecture and the next generation of art enthusiasts.
Through May 3, the galleries remain in an exclusive Member Preview phase, allowing the LACMA community a first, intimate look at the permanent collection within the fluid, light-filled spaces designed by Peter Zumthor.
The NexGenLA Celebration: A Family Landmark
On Sunday, May 3, the focus shifts to the youth of Los Angeles with the NexGenLA Celebration. This event is specifically designed for NexGenLA members LACMA's free membership for children and teens and their families to mark the museum's next chapter in a vibrant, communal atmosphere.
The celebration promises to transform the museum plaza into a hub of creative energy, featuring:
Interactive Art: Professional face painting inspired by the museum’s iconic works.
Community Portraits: Family portraits captured by the acclaimed Las Fotos Project, a non-profit dedicated to empowering young photographers.
Whimsical Performance: A live show by the legendary Bob Baker Marionette Theater, bringing a touch of classic L.A. magic to the modern galleries.
Sonic Backdrop: High-energy DJ sets curated by Novena Carmel of KCRW, ensuring the museum’s "next chapter" feels as modern as its architecture.
Expanding the Educational Footprint
Sunday also marks the opening of the W.M. Keck Education Center Gallery. This new plaza-level space is a dedicated venue for contemporary artists to engage directly with the public, emphasizing LACMA’s mission to make education and world-class art inseparable.
The inaugural exhibition in this space features Christina Quarles, one of the most compelling voices in contemporary art. Titled Now We're There (And We've Only Just Begun), the presentation will be on view from May 3 through the fall, offering a deep dive into Quarles' exploration of identity and the human form.
A Vision Realized
As the inaugural installation series continues to unfold, the Geffen Galleries are proving to be more than just a home for objects; they are a vessel for the diverse stories of Los Angeles. From the high-profile architectural talks of the past week to the family centered festivities of the coming Sunday, LACMA is successfully positioning itself as a 21st-century "town square" for the arts.
For those unable to attend the previews, the museum continues to release curated insights and digital assets through its official platform, Unframed, and a dedicated digital press kit.
