Full Breakdown
Frank Gehry Exhibition at Gagosian Beverly Hills: A Tribute to the Late Architect
4/17/2026, 8:45:53 PM
Overview of the Exhibition
The Gagosian Beverly Hills is set to open a significant exhibition dedicated to the late architect Frank Gehry, running from May 14 to June 27, 2026. This marks the first showcase of Gehry's work since his passing in December 2025. The exhibition, curated by Deborah McLeod and Meaghan Lloyd, aims to celebrate Gehry's artistic contributions, particularly his animal-themed sculptures, including a rarely seen stainless steel bear figure on loan from his family.
Featured Works and Artistic Vision
The highlight of the exhibition is an artist proof of "Bear with Us" (2014), which was notably retrieved from Gehry's wife Berta Aguilera’s garden using a crane. This sculpture, characterized by its crumpled appearance, is believed to embody Gehry's creative process, although McLeod clarified that Gehry himself disputed the notion that it originated from a balled-up piece of paper. The exhibition will also feature a variety of other animal-themed sculptures, such as a glowing black crocodile and gouache-painted papier-mâché snake lamps, alongside "Fish on Fire" (2023), the last of Gehry's fish sculptures crafted in copper.
Curatorial Intent and Emotional Resonance
McLeod expressed that the exhibition is not a retrospective but rather an opportunity for attendees to connect with Gehry's legacy. She noted, “Everybody is kind of raw and missing Frank,” emphasizing the emotional significance of the event for those who worked closely with him. The exhibition aims to provide a space for reflection and remembrance, allowing visitors to engage with Gehry's artistic practice in a personal way.
Broader Implications of Gehry's Work
Frank Gehry is widely recognized for his transformative architectural designs, which have significantly impacted Los Angeles. His works, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, have reinvigorated the city's identity. However, Gehry's artistic endeavors, as showcased in this exhibition, reveal a more intimate side of his creative expression. McLeod remarked on the pressures Gehry faced as a leading architect, suggesting that his art served as a personal outlet amidst the demands of his architectural practice.
Official Statements & Responses
Deborah McLeod, senior director at Gagosian Beverly Hills, stated, “I wouldn’t say it’s a retrospective, but it is a chance to stand in the room and be with him.” She highlighted the collaborative nature of the exhibition, which was realized in partnership with Gehry's family and his studio.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Everybody is kind of raw and missing Frank, and it’s just a chance to come together and do this again as his team,” — Deborah McLeod, Senior Director, Gagosian Beverly Hills
- “We’re really going to give him his due,” — Deborah McLeod, Senior Director, Gagosian Beverly Hills
- “As one of the busiest architects in the world, imagine the math and the minutiae that you have to go through,” — Deborah McLeod, Senior Director, Gagosian Beverly Hills
This exhibition not only honors Gehry's legacy but also invites the public to engage with his artistic vision in a meaningful way, reflecting on the profound impact he had on both architecture and art.
