Discover the Best Art Exhibitions in Los Angeles

Lauded as the new California gold rush, Los Angeles has emerged as a hotspot for art enthusiasts and collectors alike. Gallerists from around the globe have established West Coast outposts, with renowned dealers expanding their presence in the city. Notable events like the annual contemporary art fair, Frieze, further bolster LA’s reputation as a vibrant art hub. This guide highlights essential exhibitions you should not miss while soaking in the culturally rich atmosphere of LA.

ED RUSCHA / NOW THEN at LACMA

Ed Ruscha’s NOW THEN exhibition at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a must-visit. With a career spanning decades, Ruscha’s work reflects his deep connection to Los Angeles through various media including painting, drawing, and photography. This comprehensive retrospective allows visitors to appreciate his unique perspective on landscape and typography.

Admission: Tickets are $28 for adults. It’s advisable to purchase timed-entry tickets in advance, as they often sell out.

Location: The museum is conveniently situated in LA’s Miracle Mile neighborhood, easily accessible via the 10 and 101 freeways.

Homage to Nature by Mineo Mizuno at the Huntington

Weaving art into nature, Mineo Mizuno’s Homage to Nature is a site-specific sculpture made from fallen timber from the Sierra Nevada forests. On display until May 25, 2029, this piece encapsulates themes of destruction and regeneration. Set in a 130-acre botanical garden, it encourages reflection on the relationship between art and the natural world.

Admission: Entrance is $29 for adults.

Location: The Huntington is located off the 110 Freeway in San Marino, approximately 12 miles northeast of downtown LA.

Best in Low at Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum is showcasing Best in Low, an exhibition celebrating lowrider culture that runs through spring 2025. With the recent lifting of a long-standing ban on lowrider cruising, this exhibit offers a vibrant display of elaborately customized vehicles including classic Impalas and Monte Carlos. Visitors will gain insights into the artistry behind the hydraulics and unique designs that characterize this cultural phenomenon.

Admission: Tickets cost $21 for adults.

Location: Easily accessible via the 10 or 101 Freeways, situated in LA’s Miracle Mile neighborhood.

Mickalene Thomas: All About Love at The Broad

The Broad hosts Mickalene Thomas: All About Love, an immersive exhibition that delves into the representations of Black womanhood through the artist’s lens. The show invites visitors to experience the rich narratives and vibrant environments that inspire Thomas’s work, featuring acrylic paint and rhinestone elements. This is the first stop of her international tour, allowing LA audiences a unique opportunity to engage with her boundary-pushing art.

Admission: Tickets are $22 for adults; purchasing in advance is recommended, though same-day tickets are available with an expected wait.

Location: The Broad is centrally located in downtown LA, easily accessible by Metro.

Sculpted Portraits from Ancient Egypt at Getty Villa Museum

At the Getty Villa, Sculpted Portraits from Ancient Egypt transports visitors back in time with artifacts dating as far back as 664 BCE. This exhibit features a remarkable collection of statues, reliefs, and sarcophagi amidst a picturesque environment that includes stunning gardens and views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s an unexpected yet delightful pairing of history and natural beauty.

Admission: Free, with a timed-entry reservation system in place.

Location: Accessed via the Pacific Coast Highway, the villa is a scenic spot perfect for a cultural day out.