The Looming Labor Shift in the Art World: LACMA Unionization Signals a Broader Reckoning
Nearly 70% of entry-level art museum workers don’t earn a living wage. This startling statistic, revealed in a recent industry report, underscores a crisis brewing beneath the polished surfaces of the art world – a crisis now erupting at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Just months before the highly anticipated opening of its $720 million David Geffen Galleries, LACMA employees have announced the formation of museum union, LACMA United, representing over 300 workers and signaling a potential turning point for labor practices across cultural institutions.
Beyond LACMA: A National Trend of Museum Unionization
The move at LACMA isn’t isolated. It’s part of a growing wave of unionization efforts sweeping through museums and cultural organizations nationwide. Inspired by successful campaigns at institutions like the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, LACMA United is joining a collective push for better working conditions. This surge in organizing reflects a fundamental shift in power dynamics, as staff increasingly demand a voice in the institutions they sustain.
The Core Issues: Pay, Burnout, and Lack of Opportunity
The impetus behind LACMA United stems from familiar concerns: stagnant wages failing to keep pace with the soaring cost of living in Los Angeles, increasing workloads due to staff turnover, and limited opportunities for professional growth. As curatorial assistant Aurora van Zoelen Cortés explained, employees feel a deep commitment to the museum and its collection, and seek that same level of care reflected in their own treatment. The recently released “2025 Report on Workplace Equity and Organizational Culture in US Art Museums” from Museums Moving Forward confirms these anxieties, finding that inequities in pay and workplace culture are “entrenched” across the field, with nearly half of all staff considering leaving their jobs.
The Impact of the New David Geffen Galleries
The timing of this unionization effort is particularly significant, coinciding with the final stages of LACMA’s ambitious expansion. The new David Geffen Galleries, designed by Peter Zumthor, represent a massive investment in the museum’s future and a commitment to showcasing its vast collection. However, employees argue that this investment must extend to those who make the museum run. The union is seeking not only increased compensation and expanded benefits but also greater institutional transparency – a demand for a seat at the table when decisions impacting their work lives are made.
A Test Case for Institutional Values
LACMA’s response to the unionization effort will be closely watched by the entire art world. CEO Michael Govan has stated his willingness to “support” staff, but voluntary recognition of the union remains the key demand. The outcome will set a precedent for how other museums address similar concerns and demonstrate whether institutions are truly committed to fostering a sustainable and equitable work environment. This isn’t simply about wages; it’s about valuing the expertise and dedication of the individuals who curate, preserve, and share our cultural heritage.
The Future of Work in the Arts: Towards a More Equitable Model
The challenges facing art museum workers are symptomatic of broader trends in the cultural sector. The traditional model of relying on passion and prestige to compensate for low pay is increasingly unsustainable. The rise of unionization, coupled with growing awareness of systemic inequities, is forcing institutions to re-evaluate their labor practices. We can expect to see increased demands for living wages, comprehensive benefits packages, and greater diversity and inclusion initiatives. Furthermore, museums will likely need to embrace more transparent and collaborative decision-making processes to rebuild trust and retain talent.
The LACMA unionization effort isn’t just a local story; it’s a bellwether for the future of work in the arts. It’s a call for institutions to align their values with their actions and to recognize that a thriving cultural sector depends on a thriving workforce. The question now is whether museums will heed that call and embrace a more equitable and sustainable model for the 21st century.
What steps do you think museums should take to address the issues of low pay and burnout? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
