ArtDependence | Protecting the Present, planning for the Future: How the Getty faced the LA Fires

Thursday, January 23, 2025

In the wake of the devastating wildfires that have swept through Los Angeles, the Getty has emerged unscathed, preserving its iconic sites and invaluable collections. ArtDependence contacted a Getty spokesperson to understand the institution’s resilience, strategies, and vision for the future.

Both the Getty Villa and the Getty Center have remained intact despite the wildfires. While some trees and vegetation at the Getty Villa were burned, no structures were damaged. Importantly, the art collections at both locations remain safe and secure.

The Getty employs comprehensive fire mitigation efforts year-round, including clearing brush from the surrounding areas of both the Getty Villa and Getty Center. Both sites are equipped with on-site water storage systems, and irrigation was activated during the fire threat.

The Getty Villa’s museum galleries and library archives are safeguarded by state-of-the-art air handling systems, which effectively seal them off from smoke. Additionally, the double-walled construction of these facilities provides a robust layer of protection for the art collections.

The Getty does not foresee challenges with insuring its collection or securing loans from other museums in the future. As a spokesperson explained, the institution’s track record of preparedness is well-established. During the 2019 fire that approached the Getty Center, the institution demonstrated it was "the safest place for art during a fire." To reassure partners during the Palisades fire, the Getty shared photos of loaned objects to confirm their safety and condition.

The Getty recognizes that wildfires are an ongoing challenge in Southern California and remains committed to protecting its sites and collections. The spokesperson highlighted the broader impact of the fires on the cultural community, particularly in areas like Pacific Palisades and Altadena, where many artists have faced significant losses.

We are not strangers to the fact that wildfires will continue to be a regular occurrence in Southern California and we will continue to take measure to protect our sites and collections. The damage is most evident in the Pacific Palisades and especially Altadena, where many artists have experienced loss. To help alleviate such losses, we organized a coalition with dozens of other arts supporters called the LA Arts Community Fire Relief Fund to provide emergency relief to artists and cultural workers who lost residences, studios, archives, artworks, and more.

The Getty’s preparedness and proactive measures have cemented its role as a cultural stronghold in Los Angeles. Its efforts to support the broader artistic community underscore its dedication to preserving not only its own collections but also the vibrant cultural landscape of the city.

Main Image: The Getty Villa, Courtesy The Getty

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ArtDependence Magazine is an international magazine covering all spheres of contemporary art, as well as modern and classical art.

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