Santa Monica's cultural scene received a fresh infusion of artistic talent with the city's acquisition of Edgar Arceneaux’s “Skinning the Mirror (Winter 9), 2025”, courtesy of the Frieze Los Angeles art fair. Taking place from Feb. 20-23 at the Santa Monica Airport, the fair was the backdrop for this latest enhancement to the municipal Art Bank collection. The piece, hailing from the fair’s Focus section, which spotlights galleries less than 12 years old, now joins the ranks of Santa Monica's public art treasures.
Chosen by a selection jury that included Santa Monica Arts Commissioner Michael J. Masucci, Frieze Director of Americas Christine Messineo, and Del Vaz Projects Founding Director & Chief Curator Jay Ezra Nayssan, the artwork was one of many from Southern California-based artists. While selecting the artwork from the many that Southern California-based artists offered, the jury's decision adds to the city's growing artistic portfolio. According to a statement, Michael J. Masucci said, "As Santa Monica is recognized internationally for its support of the arts, this collaboration between Frieze Los Angeles, independent curators and members of the Santa Monica Arts Commission further builds the importance of working together to support new artistic voices."
The third consecutive year that Frieze Los Angeles has taken up residence in Santa Monica, the partnership between the fair and the city has been fruitful. Pairing up since 2023, when Frieze Los Angeles first relocated to the Santa Monica Airport, past acquisitions have included works by artists Edgar Ramirez and Gary Tyler, enhancing the appeal of City Hall with their artistic presence.
Exemplifying the city's commitment to nurturing an environment where art and economic growth go hand in hand, Santa Monica Mayor Lana Negrete expressed satisfaction in the continued partnership with Frieze Los Angeles. "Santa Monica prides itself on celebrating art and creativity, and I am immensely proud to add another artwork to the municipal collection by a wonderful regional artist," Mayor Negrete told reporters. "The city’s partnership with Frieze Los Angeles allows Santa Monica to continue to create opportunities for artists while emphasizing the vital role art and creativity have on supporting our economic growth."
To view the full Santa Monica Art Bank collection, local art enthusiasts and visitors can explore it online at the Public Art Archive's website. Further information about the synergy between Frieze Los Angeles and the city of Santa Monica can be found on the Frieze website. Inquiries and media contacts should be directed to Public Information Officer, Tati Simonian, at [email protected] for additional details or any follow-up questions.
