In an inspiring act of community support, major art organizations in Los Angeles—including the J. Paul Getty Trust, LACMA, and the Hammer Museum—have united to establish a vital $12 million emergency fund aimed at assisting artists and cultural professionals affected by the catastrophic wildfires sweeping through California.
L.A. Arts Community Fire Relief Fund
This new initiative, called the L.A. Arts Community Fire Relief Fund, aims to bolster the resilience of individuals who have lost homes, studios, and essential sources of income.
Management of the fund will fall under the guidance of the Center for Cultural Innovation, a San Francisco-based nonprofit dedicated to fostering financial sustainability for artists.
A significant contribution has been drawn from the Getty, recognized as the wealthiest art institution globally with a remarkable endowment of $9.1 billion.
Reports confirm that while evacuation orders were issued near the Getty Villa—home to priceless antiquities—the institution’s facilities and collections are secure.
Broad Support for the Initiative
Support for this fund has also come from a wide array of organizations.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), the Andy Warhol Foundation, and the Mellon and Helen Frankenthaler foundations, as well as Qatar Museums, have all played a crucial role.
Furthermore, notable commercial galleries in Los Angeles, including Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, and Jeffrey Deitch, have also stepped forward to offer their backing.
Application Process and Community Impact
The wildfires have wreaked havoc on the community, displacing many and stirring anxiety about the future of the local artistic scene, particularly in areas such as Altadena.
The president and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust has pledged to act quickly to ensure funds reach community members in need of new housing.
There’s a strong commitment to simplifying the application process, ensuring that artists can access support without being bogged down by red tape during this challenging time.
Those who have suffered losses due to the fires are encouraged to apply for emergency grants by visiting the Center for Cultural Innovation’s website at www.cciarts.org.
This joint effort highlights the enduring spirit of Los Angeles’ artistic community, as they work together to heal and rebuild in the wake of adversity.