Hollywood’s Star-Studded LACMA Gala Raises Funds and Unveils New Gucci Collection
The LACMA Art + Film Gala took place on Saturday night, attracting some of Hollywood’s biggest stars and raising crucial funds for the Los Angeles museum. Despite pro-Israel protests and a red carpet that was a no-interview zone, the event was a roaring success and put brand sponsor Gucci in the spotlight.
The star-studded affair was attended by A-list celebrities including Brad Pitt, Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Rosé, A$AP Rocky, Billie Eilish, Pedro Pascal, and many more. The event also saw the presence of prominent figures from the art world such as Betye Saar, Ed Ruscha, Catherine Opie, and Angela Davis.
Among the night’s honorees were Los Angeles artist Judy Baca and filmmaker David Fincher. Brad Pitt delivered an introduction to Fincher, with whom he has collaborated on multiple films, while ensuring compliance with SAG-AFTRA striking rules.
The gala also marked the debut of Sabato De Sarno as Gucci’s new creative director. De Sarno took the opportunity to showcase his first Ancora Notte eveningwear and menswear on several VIPs and models. With excitement and a touch of humor, De Sarno expressed his delight at dressing so many stars.
As part of Gucci’s marketing campaign, De Sarno even joined Miley Cyrus in shooting the next fragrance campaign by hiking to the Hollywood sign. De Sarno’s designs were well-received, with co-chair Eva Chow and actress Kirsten Dunst proudly donning his creations.
The event was not just about fashion and glitz; it also highlighted the importance of supporting the arts. The gala raised over $5 million, contributing to the ongoing expansion project of the LACMA museum. Guests expressed relief and gratitude for being able to come together during challenging times.
During the cocktail reception, LACMA director Michael Govan acknowledged the diverse community of Los Angeles and emphasized the counterforce of love that resonated in the room. The evening celebrated the artists and creativity that help us see the way forward in these dark times.
One of the honored artists, Judy Baca, is known for her groundbreaking mural work depicting the history of California. Her project, Painting in the River of Angels: Judy Baca and the Great Wall, is currently on display at LACMA. Baca encouraged guests to witness her ongoing work, which documents the history of Los Angeles, America, and California.
David Fincher, whose illustrious directing career includes collaborations with Brad Pitt, was also recognized at the gala. Fincher’s contributions to the industry were highlighted, from technical advancements to his role in launching platforms like Netflix.
In his acceptance speech, Fincher urged the resolution of the SAG-AFTRA strike, emphasizing the need to bring talented individuals back to work. He also made a powerful statement about cinema, stating that it is far from dead and referencing the timeless human pursuit of artistic expression.
The LACMA Art + Film Gala, with its star-studded guest list and support for the arts, proved to be a memorable and successful event. As Hollywood continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic, gatherings like these provide a glimmer of hope and a celebration of creativity. With Gucci’s sponsorship and the incredible talent showcased throughout the evening, the event added yet another chapter to the history of art and film in Los Angeles.
