Key Highlights
- The Dodgers’ victory in the World Series game influenced the mood of the 2025 LACMA Art + Film Gala.
- Cynthia Erivo attended the star-studded event along with other celebrities and local officials.
- Michael Govan, CEO of LACMA, joked that the museum had “engineered” the win for this special evening.
- The gala raised a record $6.5 million in support of the museum and its programs.
The Dodgers’ World Series Win Sets the Tone at LACMA’s Art + Film Gala
When Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) director Michael Govan first stepped up to the podium, the Dodgers were down one run in their final game against the Toronto Blue Jays. However, this detail took a backseat as the baseball world was captivated by the Dodgers’ eventual victory, an event that set the stage for LACMA’s 14th annual Art + Film Gala on November 2, 2025.
A Night of Celebration
The gala, co-chaired by Leonardo DiCaprio and LACMA trustee Eva Chow, honored artist Mary Corse and filmmaker Ryan Coogler. Celebrities in attendance included Cynthia Erivo, Dustin Hoffman, Cindy Crawford, Queen Latifah, Angela Bassett, Lorde, Demi Moore, Hannah Einbinder, Charlie Hunnam, and Elle Fanning. Local elected officials also participated, such as U.S.
Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Los Angeles), L.A. County Supervisors Holly Mitchell and Lindsey Horvath, L.A.
Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, West Hollywood Councilmember John M. Erickson, and Kristin Sakoda, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture.
Engineering a Win for the Gala
Govan joked that LACMA had “engineered” the Dodgers’ win to ensure the perfect atmosphere for this special event. This comment reflected the museum’s role in creating an environment where art, film, and sports intersected seamlessly. The victory added an extra layer of excitement and unity to the evening.
A Record-Breaking Event
The gala not only celebrated its honorees but also raised a record $6.5 million for LACMA and its programs. This financial success underscored the significant support from attendees, who were eager to contribute to the museum’s mission of fostering creativity and cultural exchange.
Behind the Scenes: The Unionization Effort
While the gala was a triumph in terms of fundraising and community engagement, it also highlighted ongoing efforts within LACMA. Employees announced their intention to unionize as part of LACMA United, representing over 300 workers across various departments. Despite this development, there were no plans for a demonstration at the event.
The unionization effort reflects broader concerns in the arts community about working conditions and fair treatment. As LACMA continues to grow and expand with new facilities like the David Geffen Galleries, addressing these issues becomes increasingly important.
