On November 1, 2025, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) hosted its 14th annual Art + Film Gala, raising an impressive $6.5 million. This significant event, presented by Gucci and co-chaired by Eva Chow and Leonardo DiCaprio, honored acclaimed filmmaker Ryan Coogler and pioneering artist Mary Corse.
The gala attracted nearly 600 guests from various sectors, including art, film, fashion, and philanthropy, highlighting LACMA’s role as a vibrant hub where these disciplines intersect. Attendees gathered under the iconic Urban Light installation, setting a picturesque scene for a night dedicated to celebrating artistic vision and cultural dialogue.
A Tribute to Creative Icons
LACMA’s CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director, Michael Govan, emphasized the impact of the honorees, stating, “Mary Corse and Ryan Coogler have each forged a singular path in their fields. Their work reminds us how light, image, and story can shift our perspective.”
The evening commenced with a cocktail hour at the Smidt Welcome Plaza, followed by a gourmet dinner crafted by Michelin-starred chef David Shim of COTE Korean Steakhouse. A short film titled “Mary Corse: Let Everything In,” directed by Alysa Nahmias, was introduced by artist James Turrell. Following this, actress Angela Bassett celebrated Coogler’s contributions, showcasing a montage of his influential works from films such as Fruitvale Station to Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Coogler addressed attendees, sharing, “I think art is one of the things that makes us human. It helps us practice empathy—to see the world through someone else’s eyes.”
A Night of Entertainment and Engagement
After dinner, guests were invited back outside, where Cynthia Erivo and SZA introduced the evening’s musical highlight, Doja Cat. The GRAMMY-winning artist performed an electrifying set featuring tracks from her latest album, “Vie,” including popular songs like “Cards” and “All Mine.” This performance served as a vibrant conclusion to an evening focused on artistic evolution and cultural celebration.
The guest list featured a diverse array of notable figures, including Salma Hayek Pinault, Ava DuVernay, Tessa Thompson, and Paris Hilton, many dressed in Gucci under the creative direction of Demna. The event was complemented by fine wines from JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and cocktails by KHEE Premium Soju, fostering lively conversations throughout the night.
Since its inception in 2011, the Art + Film Gala has become a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ philanthropic landscape, uniting the city’s creative community. Chow expressed her gratitude, stating, “It’s always an honor to host such an incredible group of people to celebrate art and film at LACMA.”
With its record-breaking fundraising total and a star-studded display of support, the 2025 Art + Film Gala reaffirmed Los Angeles’ status as a cultural epicenter where film, fashion, and fine art continue to intertwine, enriching the global arts landscape.
