The Arts Council of Greater Los Angeles has relaunched as an independent nonprofit organization, ending a 15-year affiliation with the Century City Chamber of Commerce. The move marks a significant shift in the region's cultural landscape, as the Council seeks to expand its programming and deepen its role as a collaboration hub connecting artists with patrons and advancing arts access for all. The relaunch positions the organization to advocate more effectively for the arts and to help solidify Los Angeles's status as a global cultural capital, not merely an entertainment hub.
"Our vision is to position Los Angeles not only as an entertainment capital, but as a true global arts capital," said Agnes Penot, The Arts Council Chair. "We aim to celebrate creativity, preserve cultural heritage, and ensure the arts are accessible to everyone through innovative programs and partnerships." That ambition reflects a broader recognition that arts and culture are essential to the region's identity and economy, and that coordinated leadership can amplify their impact.
To launch this new era, the Council will host an inaugural event, "LA in Motion Now & Next: Reimagining Art, Access and Policy," on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 6 to 9 PM at the Wende Museum, Community Room, 10808 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90230. The event is free, though seating is limited, and will feature a panel discussion with prominent figures: Maya Emsden, Executive Officer of Arts + Community Enrichment at LA Metro; Sarah Cifarelli, LAX Art Program Director; David Pagel of Claremont Graduate University Art Department; and moderator Catherine Wagley, a writer and art critic. A social reception will precede and follow the discussion. Those interested can RSVP on Eventbrite.
The panel's focus on art, access, and policy underscores the Council's commitment to addressing systemic barriers in the arts. By bringing together voices from transportation, airports, academia, and criticism, the event highlights how art intersects with public infrastructure, urban planning, and education. This cross-sector approach is critical for developing policies that ensure equitable access to cultural resources across Los Angeles's diverse communities.
As a standalone nonprofit, the Council plans a robust calendar of events designed to engage diverse audiences throughout the city. Its independence allows for greater flexibility and focus on advocacy, programming, and partnerships. The Council's role as a connector between artists and patrons is expected to grow, fostering a more inclusive arts ecosystem. For more information, visit https://www.artscouncil-la.org/.
The relaunch comes at a time when cultural institutions nationwide are re-evaluating their missions and funding models. By establishing itself as an independent entity, the Arts Council of Greater Los Angeles is poised to lead a more unified and strategic effort to elevate the arts, ensuring that creativity and cultural heritage remain central to the city's future.
