Leading actor and activist Jane Fonda has partnered with mega-gallery Gagosian for a benefit exhibition with a powerful goal: to protect neighborhoods from oil drilling and its toxic effects—an issue that was slated to be on the November ballot.
On view through August 30, 2024, “Art for a Safe and Healthy California” sees a diverse range of artists and artworks showcased together, including photographic works by Nan Goldin and Richard Misrach, paintings by Alex Israel and Jessie Homer French, and a graphic mixed-media piece by Shepard Fairey.
The exhibition follows a prior gallery benefit launch back in April of this year, wherein over $14 million was raised in the fight against big oil. The present collaboration between Fonda and Gagosian was born out of the former learning about the potential inclusion of oil drilling on the forthcoming November ballot. Since then, due to the efforts of the Campaign for a Safe and Healthy California and the larger arts community, the ballot referendum was withdrawn, and the campaign has now pivoted to be a general-purpose committee that seeks aid communities into the future from further encroachments by Big Oil.
Richard Misrach, Untitled (Acrobat Super Grid #8) (2012). © Richard Misrach. Courtesy of Gagosian.
“Jane was horrified to learn that oil companies in California were planning a referendum on the November Ballot to repeal safety standards for drilling in our beautiful state. They also wanted to abolish safe setbacks for oil drilling right in the middle of our communities,” explained Gagosian Senior Director Deborah McLeod. “She came to Larry and asked him to join forces with her to raise awareness, and Larry agreed instantly. California is his home state, and he cares a lot. I met with Jane, and we pushed up our sleeves. We knew it would take a multi-faceted strategy over time, so we launched the project with a benefit event at Gagosian Beverly Hills on April 9th; then a sale at Christie’s in May; and now we are in the final phase with our exhibition here at Gagosian Beverly Hills and have raised $15 million thus far.”
Jessie Homer French, Ghosts (2012). © Jessie Homer French. Courtesy of Gagosian.
While the aims of the exhibition are admirable, the process of assembling the wide-ranging works featured in the show was no small feat—and is a singular opportunity for visitors to experience the work of numerous influential contemporary artists all in one place. Together, the show speaks to the shared concern and hopes for the future that both artists and organizers hold.
Alex Israel, Self-Portrait (Fins and Pier) (2023). Courtesy of Gagosian.
McLeod recalled, “It was hard work, and we pressed for quality, ending up with a sensational group of 25 artists represented in our exhibition, from legends to newcomers. Ed Ruscha, Cathy Opie, Frank Gehry, Jessie Homer French, and Francesca Gabbiani gave us fabulous unique works of art. Shepherd Fairey, Karon Davis, Andrea Bowers and Jackie Amézquita made bespoke works for us! They were so generous—we were humbled at every turn.”
Nan Goldin, Cupid and Psyche (2010). © Nan Goldin. Courtesy of the artist and Nan Goldin.
And while the difficulties that come with approaching such high caliber artists could have proved an issue, the success of the show again speak to the shared ideals, ultimately resulting in a stunning selection of works included in the show. McLeod continued, “Artists are asked every day to give their work to worthy causes and it’s easy to say no or offer a print. But Jane was our secret weapon. She was unbelievable. She went to studio after studio and talked about this issue and showed her gratitude. She loved meeting all the artists and dealers, and of course she loved the learning curve. She is a force for good, and it’s hard to say no to Jane.”
“Art for a Safe and Healthy California,” in partnership with Jane Fonda, is on view at Gagosian, Beverly Hills, through August 30, 2024.