Los Angeles has kicked off 2026 with a dynamic and diverse array of art exhibitions that showcase the city’s thriving cultural scene. Galleries and museums across the city are presenting a rich tapestry of artistic innovation, reflecting a range of cultural perspectives and creative expressions. January is proving to be an exciting month for art lovers, as both established institutions and innovative spaces present a variety of works, from contemporary art to immersive installations, highlighting the city’s role as a global cultural hub.
One of the standout events in Los Angeles this January is the 31st edition of the LA Art Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This iconic event features an impressive lineup of international artists and galleries, including a powerful showcase of Dr. Esther Mahlangu’s contemporary African art in the Contemporary Africa pavilion. Mahlangu’s striking works, known for their vibrant use of traditional Ndebele patterns, offer a unique perspective on contemporary African art and culture. In addition to Mahlangu’s pieces, the show also features an expansive exhibition of Shepard Fairey’s work at Beyond the Streets, offering a deep dive into the artist’s signature political art and street art culture. This combination of global and local artistic talent makes the LA Art Show a key event in the city’s art calendar.
Elsewhere in the city, major cultural institutions such as the Hammer Museum and The Broad are hosting notable exhibitions that explore works on paper and immersive art experiences. At the Hammer Museum, visitors can explore a variety of works that demonstrate the versatility of paper as an artistic medium, while The Broad continues to captivate audiences with its collection of contemporary art that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions. These institutions remain at the forefront of Los Angeles’ art scene, consistently offering thought-provoking exhibitions that engage both local and international visitors.
The Skirball Cultural Center is presenting a unique exhibition that fosters dialogue between two influential artists, Trenton Doyle Hancock and Philip Guston. This collaboration explores the intersections of identity, storytelling, and the human experience, bringing together Hancock’s imaginative and colorful narratives with Guston’s bold, expressive works. The exhibition serves as an opportunity to explore how both artists have addressed themes of personal and social significance, offering a compelling experience for art enthusiasts.
Public art continues to thrive in Los Angeles, adding an extra layer of creativity to the city’s streets and neighborhoods. This January, LA State Historic Park is hosting an outdoor sound installation that invites visitors to engage with the city in a new and interactive way. The installation combines music and environmental soundscapes to create an immersive audio experience that enhances the park’s natural beauty. In West Hollywood, the debut of the AIDS Monument offers a moving tribute to those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic, providing an emotional and reflective space for visitors to connect with the ongoing importance of awareness and activism.
These exhibitions and installations not only showcase the talent of individual artists but also highlight Los Angeles’ commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant cultural environment. The city’s art scene remains a powerful platform for exploring themes of identity, history, and social change, while also offering innovative ways for the public to engage with art. For both residents and visitors, January 2026 provides a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of artistic expressions, from the contemporary to the deeply immersive, further cementing Los Angeles’ status as a global leader in the arts. As the year progresses, the city’s art world promises to continue captivating audiences with its creativity, diversity, and cultural dialogue.
