LACMA Opens David Geffen Galleries to Members, Director Michael Govan Reflects on Museum's Vision

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Thursday, July 16, 2026 · 1 min read
Los Angeles
Image: Los Angeles · Photo by Rihards Sergis on Unsplash
Museum Frieze

The Facts

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has opened the David Geffen Galleries to members, a key development in the museum's ongoing expansion. CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director Michael Govan used the occasion to reflect on the institution's philosophy, describing a vision of "building a museum without hierarchies." The new galleries are part of LACMA's broader redevelopment project, which has been years in the making.

The Signal

The opening of the David Geffen Galleries marks a significant milestone for LACMA, which has faced both praise and criticism for its ambitious architectural plans. Govan's emphasis on a non-hierarchical museum aligns with a growing trend among institutions to rethink traditional gallery layouts and visitor experiences. For collectors and curators, the new space may signal LACMA's commitment to presenting art in a more fluid and interconnected manner.

  • People: Michael Govan
  • Museums: Los Angeles County Museum of Art
  • Locations: Los Angeles
Originally via Frieze · Curated by The Cultural Signal

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