The Geffen Contemporary at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Los Angeles has decided to close its doors in response to the recent protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and increased military presence in the city. The decision was made to prioritize the safety of staff and visitors amidst the evolving conditions in downtown LA, where demonstrations have been taking place near federal buildings.
President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard members and Marines to Los Angeles to quell protests over his immigration policies has led to a city-wide curfew from 8pm to 6am. As a result, the Geffen Contemporary will remain closed over the weekend, disrupting the ongoing durational performance “Prison State” by Nadya Tolokonnikova of Pussy Riot fame. The project, inspired by Tolokonnikova’s personal experiences with incarceration and government surveillance, was scheduled to run until June 14, with a panel discussion and live concert on June 15 now postponed.
Tolokonnikova expressed her frustration on Instagram, likening the situation to her experiences in Russia where her events were frequently shut down by authorities. The closure of the Geffen Contemporary has also impacted MOCA’s Grand Avenue location, which will be closing early and canceling its weekly late-night programming. The Broad museum, a neighboring institution, has also announced a similar closure in response to the curfew orders in the area.
In a show of solidarity with the protests, four Los Angeles arts organizations, including ICA LA, issued a joint statement opposing the ICE raids and supporting impacted immigrants and protesters. ICA LA has moved its evening programming online but will remain open during regular hours. Tolokonnikova, in a statement to Hyperallergic, expressed her support for the ongoing demonstrations against ICE and the hope for a pushback against oppressive forces.
As tensions continue to rise in Los Angeles, the closure of cultural institutions like the Geffen Contemporary and the shift to online programming demonstrate the impact of political unrest on the arts community. The solidarity shown by these organizations and artists highlights the power of art in challenging divisive forces and uniting communities in the face of adversity.
