Los Angeles Art Institutions Establish $12 Million Relief Initiative Amid Ongoing Events
L.A. Museums Launch a $12M Emergency Fund as Felix and Frieze Go Ahead as Planned
The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have left a trail of destruction, with over 180,000 people forced to evacuate and 24 lives lost. In response to the disaster, the city’s major museums have swiftly launched a $12 million emergency relief fund to support artists and cultural workers affected by the disaster.
The L.A. Arts Community Fire Relief Fund
The L.A. Arts Community Fire Relief Fund is administered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, a San Francisco-based nonprofit focused on financial security for artists. The fund has already seen a flood of contributions from major museums, private foundations, and institutions across the U.S. and beyond.
Museums and Galleries Unite in Support
The Getty led the charge with a considerable donation, forming the backbone of the fund alongside the Mohn Art Collective (a collaboration between the Hammer, LACMA, and MOCA). Other major contributors include the Mellon Foundation, the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Qatar Museums, and the Ford Foundation.
Felix Art Fair to Proceed as Planned
Despite concerns about the timing of an art fair in the wake of such widespread loss, Felix Art Fair has confirmed that it will proceed as planned. The fair’s organizers argue that postponing or canceling the event would only exacerbate the economic hardship created by the fires.
“We believe that the L.A. art community has demonstrated itself to be incredibly organized and resilient,” said Chris Sharp, founder of both the eponymous gallery and a newly launched, small-scale alternative fair, Santa Monica Post Office. “Now more than ever, it needs to come together and show up for itself.”
Frieze’s Decision
Frieze had been uncertain about its decision to proceed with its Los Angeles edition, which is scheduled to take place in just two weeks. However, the fair has now announced that it will go ahead as planned.
“After careful consideration and extensive conversations with galleries, partners, and city-wide stakeholders, we can confirm that the sixth edition of Frieze Los Angeles will go ahead from February 20-23, 2025,” said a spokesperson for the fair.
A Symbolic Stand Against Disruption
Major galleries like David Kordansky and Lisson have voiced their support for Felix’s decision to proceed with the art week. They argue that continuing to support the livelihood of artists, art workers, and the cultural fabric of the city is essential during times of crisis.
“Art has always been a beacon of resilience and a tool for reflection during times of crisis,” said Emilia Yin, founder of Make Room. “Moving forward with art week isn’t about ignoring the challenges—it’s about continuing to support the livelihood of artists, art workers, and culture of the city.”
Concerns Remain
While there is an undeniable push to return to normalcy and keep the business of art moving, concerns remain about the timing of major commercial fairs in the wake of such widespread loss. Dealers who spoke with Observer at openings in New York this week were skeptical, arguing that going ahead with a major fair could be a financial risk if collectors opt out.
Regardless, Felix Art Fair, Santa Monica Post Office, and numerous local galleries seem determined to move forward, ensuring that L.A. will still have its art week. Whether Frieze follows suit and how it might structure the fair to balance success with respect for the affected communities remains to be seen.
