Nicole Kidman in Chanel, Kim Kardashian in Gucci, Kylie Jenner in Ashi Studio, and a performance by BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ: Los Angeles hosted one of the year’s most prestigious charity galas.
On November 7, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) welcomed guests to its 15th annual Art+Film Gala. Since 2011, the event has brought together Hollywood stars, contemporary artists, and high-fashion icons. This year’s gala drew more than 600 guests and set a new fundraising record, raising nearly $7 million for the museum.
The 2026 gala honored two celebrated figures: filmmaker Denis Villeneuve, best known for Dune and Arrival, and artist Vija Celmins, whose work is renowned for its beauty and intricate depictions of natural forms.
Actor Leonardo DiCaprio and philanthropist Eva Chow once again served as co-chairs. The occasion also marked a significant moment in the gala’s history, as Chow announced she would be stepping down from her role after 15 years.
Fashion naturally took center stage on the red carpet. Guests posed for photographers against the backdrop of Chris Burden’s iconic Urban Light installation, long considered one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable landmarks.
Nicole Kidman was among the evening’s biggest stars. She wore a Chanel gown from the Spring/Summer 2027 collection under Matthieu Blazy’s creative direction. With its fitted bodice and voluminous skirt, the design evoked a ballet costume, blending theatrical flair with the fashion house’s signature elegance.
Kim Kardashian arrived in Gucci, the fashion house that has served as the gala’s presenting sponsor since its inception. Gucci’s leadership was particularly well represented, with creative director Demna, CEO Francesca Bellettini, and Kering Chairman François-Henri Pinault all in attendance.
Kylie Jenner turned heads in an Ashi Studio gown, while Anya Taylor-Joy opted for Pierre Cardin. Andrew Garfield, Julia Garner, Ashley Park, Emily Ratajkowski, Viola Davis, Salma Hayek, and many other stars also drew attention on the red carpet.
Once again, LACMA showcased the remarkable range of contemporary eveningwear, from architectural silhouettes to timeless classics.
While fashion captured much of the spotlight, the gala’s central purpose remained the celebration of artistic achievement.
Nicole Kidman introduced Denis Villeneuve, recognizing his significant contribution to contemporary cinema. In his acceptance speech, the director reflected on the power of visual art and cinema’s ability to create entire worlds that stay with audiences long after the credits roll.
Vija Celmins was also honored for her remarkable body of work, which explores subjects such as ocean waves and the night sky.
The musical highlight came courtesy of BLACKPINK’s ROSÉ. The singer performed “New Trick,” “Number One Girl,” and her hit “APT.,” along with a cover of The Killers’ “Read My Mind.” Paris Hilton introduced the artist to the audience.
Gucci has played a central role in the gala’s history. The Italian fashion house has supported the Art+Film Gala since its launch in 2011.
Over the past 15 years, the event has become a fixture on Los Angeles’ social calendar, bringing together leading filmmakers, actors, and art collectors. Proceeds support LACMA’s museum programs, new exhibitions, educational initiatives, and film screenings that bridge the worlds of visual art and cinema.
The milestone 2026 gala closed with a record-breaking fundraising total of nearly $7 million. Meanwhile, its red carpet delivered another collection of memorable looks that will undoubtedly remain a talking point in fashion circles for weeks to come.
