$50 million gift from renowned philanthropist Elaine Wynn brings her vision to life as museum expansion nears completion

The highly anticipated expansion of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is entering its final phase.

The Peter Zumthor-designed David Geffen Galleries will open in stages starting in the summer of 2025.

The grand opening is scheduled for April 2026.

It will mark a transformative moment for the museum and for one of its most influential supporters, Elaine Wynn.

As co-chair of LACMA’s board since 2015, Wynn has played a crucial role in shaping the museum’s future.

Her historic $50 million donation was instrumental in bringing the $600 million expansion to life.

In recognition of her leadership and generosity, the north wing of the new structure will bear her name, the Elaine Wynn Wing, solidifying her legacy in the arts.

Wynn, a renowned philanthropist and art collector, has long championed cultural and educational initiatives. Her commitment to LACMA extends beyond financial contributions—she has been deeply involved in guiding the museum’s direction and ensuring its accessibility to a diverse public. The new Zumthor-designed building replaces outdated facilities, allowing LACMA to present its collections in a dynamic, cross-cultural format that aligns with 21st-century museum standards.

Her impact doesn’t stop in Los Angeles. Inspired by her LACMA experience, Wynn spearheaded the creation of the Las Vegas Museum of Art (LVMA), partnering with LACMA to bring world-class exhibitions and programming to Nevada. She has also supported arts education initiatives, including the Nevada School of the Arts and The Smith Center for Performing Arts.

The David Geffen Galleries will feature fluid concrete forms, floating staircases, and expansive public spaces, set on elevated piers spanning Wilshire Boulevard. The plaza level, opening in 2025, will introduce a new LACMA Store, a shaded outdoor events area, and dining spaces backed by high-profile donors, including Ryan Seacrest, Ann Colgin, Joe Wender, Ashley, and Marc Merrill.

Art installations will commence later in 2025, with the museum gradually unveiling its permanent collection. The W.M. Keck Education Center will anchor educational programming, while the Steve Tisch Theater will serve as a new home for time-based media art. Major sculptures, including Tony Smith’s “Smoke” (1967) and Alexander Calder’s “Three Quintains (Hello Girls)” (1964), will return alongside new commissions by Mariana Castillo Deball, Liz Glynn, and Pedro Reyes.

Ahead of the 2026 debut, LACMA members and donors will receive exclusive access to the unfinished interiors. In June 2025, jazz musician Kamasi Washington will present a site-specific music series.

As LACMA prepares to unveil its bold new chapter, Elaine Wynn’s influence is unmistakable.

She has helped shape the museum into a world-class institution poised to inspire future generations through her philanthropy, leadership, and dedication to the arts.

With LACMA’s transformation nearly complete, Wynn’s vision for accessible, innovative art experiences is now becoming a reality—one that will define the cultural landscape of Los Angeles for years to come.