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 new era for the arts advocacy group, which now aims to foster a more inclusive arts community and elevate Los Angeles as a global cultural capital. To celebrate its independence, 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 in Culver City. The event is free and open to the public, though seating is limited and RSVP is required via Eventbrite.
The panel discussion will feature Maya Emsden, Executive Officer of Arts + Community Enrichment at LA Metro; Sarah Cifarelli, LAX Art Program Director; David Pagel of Claremont Graduate University's Art Department; and moderator Catherine Wagley, a writer and art critic. A social reception will precede and follow the discussion, providing networking opportunities for attendees. The event underscores the Council's commitment to connecting artists with patrons and advancing arts access for all Angelenos.
As a standalone nonprofit, The Arts Council plans to expand its programming with a robust calendar of events designed to engage diverse audiences throughout Los Angeles. "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." This strategic shift could have significant implications for the local arts scene, potentially leading to more collaborative efforts and increased funding for arts initiatives across the city.
The relaunch comes at a time when arts organizations nationwide are navigating challenges such as funding cuts and shifting audience behaviors. By becoming independent, The Arts Council gains flexibility to pursue new partnerships and tailor its programs to community needs. Its role as a collaboration hub could help bridge gaps between artists, cultural institutions, and corporate sponsors, fostering a more vibrant and equitable arts ecosystem in Los Angeles.
The inaugural event is sponsored by Kline Academy of Fine Art as Patron Sponsor, with associate sponsors including Art World Appraisals, Athletic Brewing Co., Century City News, KLEOS, QuickTales, Apryl Stewart of Skyview Concessions, Aucileia C. Rosa, Bravo Asset Securities, Candace Kentopian, Michael Heumann of Art Advisory & Law, Lipton Coins, Fine Art & Antiques, and Sada's Flowers. For more information, visit the Council's website at https://www.artscouncil-la.org/. The organization also maintains a presence on LinkedIn and Instagram under the handle artscouncil_la.
