The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is set to open its highly anticipated David Geffen Galleries to the public on May 4, 2026, following a members-only preview starting April 19. Designed by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, the $724 million, 110,000-square-foot concrete structure spans Wilshire Boulevard and houses the museum's permanent collection in a single-floor layout. The opening will be celebrated with a public block party on June 20, featuring free admission, tours, and live performances.
This opening marks a pivotal moment for LACMA, replacing several older buildings with a controversial yet landmark architectural design. The galleries introduce a non-hierarchical curatorial approach, organizing 2,500 works by geographic regions—such as the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans—rather than traditional chronological periods. By integrating the permanent collection into general admission and maintaining free hours for local residents, the museum aims to redefine the visitor experience and accessibility within the Los Angeles cultural landscape.