Full Breakdown
Vanity Fair Oscar Party Moves to LACMA's New David Geffen Galleries
12/11/2025, 5:46:42 AM
Transition to a New Venue
Vanity Fair has announced that its prestigious Oscar party will relocate from the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). This significant change will take effect on March 15, 2026, coinciding with the 98th Academy Awards. The event will be hosted in LACMA’s new David Geffen Galleries, which is set to open to the public in April 2026. This move marks a new chapter for both Vanity Fair and LACMA, establishing a partnership that aims to deepen their connection to the artistic community in Los Angeles.
Background on the New Venue
The David Geffen Galleries, designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Peter Zumthor, is a $750 million project featuring 110,000 square feet of exhibition space. The building is conceived as a cultural hub for Los Angeles, reflecting the city's diverse artistic landscape. The decision to host the Oscar party at this new venue aligns with Vanity Fair's goal to capture the evolving nature of Hollywood, where the boundaries between film, art, and technology are increasingly blurred.
Leadership Influence
The relocation is influenced by Mark Guiducci, who was appointed as Vanity Fair's global editorial director in June 2023. Guiducci, who previously worked at Vogue, is eager to imprint his vision on the magazine's marquee event. His experience with high-profile events, including the Met Gala, positions him to elevate the Oscar party's profile further. Guiducci stated, “The idea of Hollywood has never been more expansive than it is today,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of various creative disciplines.
Official Statements & Responses
Michael Govan, LACMA's CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting that Vanity Fair has been part of LACMA's narrative for years. He highlighted past collaborations, including an exhibition of the magazine’s photo archives in 2008. Govan remarked, “We are excited to forge this new partnership with Vanity Fair and to create new stories together, especially as we embark on an exciting chapter for the museum.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the move has been largely welcomed, some critics argue that the shift from a performing arts venue to a museum may alter the party's traditional atmosphere. Concerns have been raised about whether the new setting will maintain the exclusivity and intimacy that have characterized past events.
What's Next
As part of the new collaboration, Vanity Fair will also participate in LACMA’s annual Art+Film Gala, further intertwining the magazine's identity with the museum's cultural initiatives. The upcoming Oscar party is anticipated to set a new standard for Hollywood celebrations, reflecting the dynamic interplay between art and entertainment in Los Angeles.
