Modern Art Galleries

Overview

The Modern Art Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) offer an engaging journey through artistic movements of the 20th century. As the largest art museum in the western United States, LACMA is a cultural cornerstone in Los Angeles, presenting a vast collection that spans millennia. The Modern Art collection specifically highlights European and American art created from 1900 to the 1960s, providing a rich tapestry of styles and expressions from this transformative period. These galleries are primarily housed within the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM) and, most recently, the newly opened David Geffen Galleries, which redefine the visitor's experience of the museum's permanent collection.

History & Cultural Background

LACMA's story began in 1961 when it became an independent, art-focused institution, separating from the broader Los Angeles Museum of History, Science, and Art, which was established in 1910. The museum found its permanent home on Wilshire Boulevard in 1965, a site it has continued to develop and expand over the decades. The growth of its collections, particularly in modern and contemporary art, led to the addition of significant structures like the Robert O. Anderson Building in 1986 (later renamed the Art of the Americas Building), and the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM) in 2008. A major evolution saw the Modern Art Galleries undergo redesigns in collaboration with Frank Gehry and Associates, enhancing the display of these significant works. The latest chapter involves the monumental David Geffen Galleries, designed by Swiss architect Peter Zumthor, which opened to the public in May 2026, marking a pivotal moment for how LACMA presents its expansive collection.

What Makes It Special

The Modern Art Galleries distinguish themselves through several focused strengths. Visitors will discover robust holdings in German Expressionism, Abstract Expressionism, and a notable collection of Southern Californian art. The galleries feature acclaimed donations, such as the Janice and Henri Lazarof Collection, which includes significant works by Pablo Picasso and Alberto Giacometti. Another highlight is the Jane and Marc Nathanson Collection, boasting pieces by artists like Frank Stella, Roy Lichtenstein, Mark Rothko, and David Hockney. An exceptional feature is Michael McMillen's immersive environment, 'Central Meridian (The Garage),' providing a unique artistic experience. The David Geffen Galleries, a recent addition, are particularly noteworthy for their design by Peter Zumthor, allowing for ample natural light and offering panoramic views of the Los Angeles cityscape. This architectural approach enables a non-chronological and cross-cultural exploration of art, inviting visitors to forge their own paths through the collection.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The spirit of LACMA's Modern Art Galleries is one of continuous evolution and a commitment to re-examining art historical narratives. Director Michael Govan emphasizes the importance of rethinking histories to keep museums relevant in a changing world. A fascinating detail within the new David Geffen Galleries is the black concrete terrazzo floor, which features tiny white shells embedded within it – a subtle nod to the fact that the Los Angeles area was once a seabed. Architect Peter Zumthor conceived the building to be elevated 30 feet above a plaza, creating new public spaces beneath and around the structure, further integrating the museum with its urban environment. LACMA is strategically located on Museum Row, positioning it alongside other significant cultural institutions and the iconic La Brea Tar Pits. The museum continuously introduces new acquisitions, ensuring that each visit can uncover fresh artistic discoveries.

Visitor Perspective

A visit to the Modern Art Galleries at LACMA is designed to be a deeply personal and enriching experience. The redesigned spaces, especially within the David Geffen Galleries, offer a unique atmosphere with natural light and sweeping views, encouraging a sense of exploration and wonder. Visitors are invited to engage with the art through thoughtfully crafted interpretive texts and can enhance their experience with thematic audio tours, accessible via smartphones. These tours often feature curated soundtracks with musical pairings for individual artworks, creating a multi-sensory encounter. The flexible layout of the new galleries promotes a non-linear journey, allowing each traveler to discover connections and interpretations at their own pace. For residents of Los Angeles County, there are often opportunities for free admission at specific times, making these world-class collections accessible to a broader audience. The Modern Art Galleries promise an insightful and inspiring encounter with some of the most pivotal artistic creations of the 20th century.