The Los Angeles Times has published a guide to the new public park surrounding LACMA's David Geffen Galleries, designed by architect Peter Zumthor. The 3.5-acre campus features outdoor dining, a sculpture garden, and a 300-seat theater, with free public art including Jeff Koons' topiary "Split-Rocker," Chris Burden's "Urban Light," and works by Alexander Calder, Pedro Reyes, and Shio Kusaka. The article provides a detailed map of installations, amenities, and nearby attractions like the La Brea Tar Pits.
This matters because LACMA's new campus redefines the museum as an integrated part of the city, inviting foot traffic and blurring the line between indoor galleries and public space. By offering free access to major outdoor artworks and casual amenities, the institution positions itself as a cultural playground that engages a broader audience, potentially setting a new standard for urban museum design and community interaction.