The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has successfully exceeded its fundraising goal of $750 million for its new building project, set to open in 2024. According to the Los Angeles Times, the museum has surpassed its target, with construction currently over 65% complete. The fundraising efforts were at 98% completion by March, with notable donations from trustee Steve Tisch, who contributed $20 million or more, and mega collector David Geffen, who donated an impressive $150 million. As a result, the new building will be named the David Geffen Galleries.
In other news, renowned sociologist Howard S. Becker, renowned for his book Art Worlds, which examines the creation and interpretation of artworks within networks of people, passed away at the age of 95. Becker’s work, which also delved into deviance and drug culture, focused on understanding how people collaborate and engage in various activities together.
The market for high-end collectible cars appears to be softening, as evidenced by the recent Monterey Car Week auctions in California. The sell-through rate dropped from 78% to 68% compared to last year, and the average lot price also experienced a decline. Buyers expressed concerns about the excessive number of cars available.
Moving on to the art world, the lineup for the 11th edition of the Sequences Biennial in ReykjavÃk, Iceland has been revealed. The event, scheduled to run from October 13 to 22, will feature renowned artists such as Agnes Denes, Benjamin Patterson, and Daiga Grantina, among others.
In gallery news, artist Marina Rheingantz, known for her diverse body of work spanning painting, tapestry, and other mediums, has joined the esteemed White Cube gallery. Rheingantz is set to showcase her talent at the gallery’s Mason’s Yard branch in London this October.
Finally, Keith McNally, a well-known restaurateur famous for establishments like Balthazar, Pastis, and Lucky Strike, expressed his admiration for museum gift shops on his lively Instagram account. McNally likened visiting the Met’s Art Gift Shop to enjoying a delicious dessert after a satisfying three-course meal at the museum.
These updates highlight the achievements and developments in the art world, from successful fundraising endeavors for new museum buildings to the passing of influential sociologists and shifts in the collectible car market. With new exhibitions and collaborations on the horizon, it is an exciting time for art enthusiasts and enthusiasts everywhere.
