The Arts Council of Greater Los Angeles has relaunched as an independent nonprofit organization after 15 years under 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.
As a standalone entity, the Arts Council plans to expand its programming with a robust calendar of events designed to engage diverse audiences throughout the city. Its inaugural event, “LA in Motion Now & Next: Reimagining Art, Access and Policy,” will take place on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Wende Museum in Culver City. The event features a panel discussion with arts leaders including Maya Emsden of LA Metro, Sarah Cifarelli of LAX Art Program, David Pagel of Claremont Graduate University, and moderator Catherine Wagley, a writer and art critic. A social reception will precede and follow the discussion. Admission is free, but seating is limited, and RSVPs are required via Eventbrite.
The relaunch carries significant implications for Los Angeles’s cultural landscape. By operating independently, the Arts Council can deepen its role as a collaboration hub, connecting artists with patrons and advancing arts access for all. “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.”
The organization’s expanded programming is expected to address ongoing challenges in arts accessibility and policy, particularly as the city grapples with issues of equity and funding. The inaugural panel’s focus on reimagining art, access, and policy underscores the Council’s commitment to tackling these systemic issues through dialogue and collaboration.
Support for the relaunch comes from a range of sponsors, including Patron Sponsor Kline Academy of Fine Art and Associate Sponsors such as Art World Appraisals, Athletic Brewing Co., Century City News, KLEOS, QuickTales, and others. For more information, visit the Arts Council’s website at https://www.artscouncil-la.org/.
The Arts Council’s independence signals a broader shift in how cultural organizations in Los Angeles operate, potentially enabling more agile responses to community needs. By fostering partnerships and innovative programs, the Council seeks to ensure that the arts remain a vital and accessible part of life in Los Angeles, reinforcing the city’s status as a global cultural leader.
