News Summary
Internationally acclaimed artist Jeff Koons has planted a silvery gray dudleya succulent in his monumental 37-foot-tall topiary sculpture, “Split-Rocker,” at LACMA. The project, scheduled to open in April 2026, features a vibrant design with over 50,000 plants, developed in collaboration with landscape architects. The sculpture aims to attract diverse audiences and enhance the museum’s public engagement initiatives, while receiver significant philanthropic support and incorporating sustainable practices.
Los Angeles, CA – Internationally renowned artist Jeff Koons planted a silvery gray dudleya succulent in his monumental 37-foot-tall topiary sculpture “Split-Rocker” at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The ceremonial planting event took place on a construction lift, with enthusiastic cheers from LACMA employees and on-site workers marking the occasion.
Director Michael Govan of LACMA participated in the event, showing his enthusiasm for the ambitious art project. “Split-Rocker” is expected to be firmly anchored on the east side of the museum’s campus and is slated to open to the public in April 2026, specifically at the new David Geffen Galleries.
The impressive structure of “Split-Rocker” is composed of 1,800 linear feet of steel tubing, featuring 500 planter boxes designed to support a vibrant array of vegetation. The planned final installation will include more than 50,000 flowering perennials and succulents, all of which will be nourished by 110 pounds of soil secured with wire mesh and landscape fabric.
Ecological Collaboration and Design
In designing the artwork, Koons collaborated closely with landscape architects from LRM, including Kathy Wishard, to choose sustainable California native plants. These selections aim to ensure that the sculpture is not only beautiful but will also facilitate an ecosystem that blooms continuously throughout the year. The initial planting featured multiple plant varieties such as white trailing lantana, orange flame gazania rigens, and pink kaboom lampranthus, which were organized according to the color requirements to define different sections of the sculpture.
Koons elaborated that the living aspects of the sculpture will provide visitors with evolving emotional interactions as the plants bloom and change over time, enhancing the overall experience for those who visit the site.
Historical Context and Future Vision
LACMA has aspired to acquire one of Koons’ living sculptures for two decades, with the desire initially sparked when “Split-Rocker” was showcased at Rockefeller Center. The museum’s version will be strategically positioned to be visible to drivers on Wilshire Boulevard, serving as a symbolic guardian at the entrance of the college.
Govan expressed optimism that the artwork will attract a diverse audience, including children, pollinators like bees and butterflies, and birds, potentially encouraging new visitors to explore the museum. The sculpture’s installation received a significant boost through a generous donation from Lynda and Stewart Resnick.
LACMA anticipates that the official planting phase of “Split-Rocker” will be completed within the next two weeks. The surrounding landscape is also being thoughtfully developed to include amenities such as trees, functional stairways, a streetside café, and expansive greenery, all aimed at improving accessibility to the sculpture.
Furthermore, LACMA announced plans for a robust outdoor public art program, within which “Split-Rocker” will serve as a key attraction in the newly redesigned public spaces of the museum. The initiative underscores the museum’s goal of creating a dynamic hub for public engagement and enriched art experiences, with ongoing installations throughout the campus all contributing to the gallery’s future.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
LACMA Acquires Jeff Koons’ Iconic Split-Rocker Sculpture
Additional Resources
- LA Times: Jeff Koons” Split-Rocker” at LACMA
- The Art Newspaper: LACMA Acquires Jeff Koons’ Split-Rocker
- ArtNews: Jeff Koons’ Split-Rocker Installation
- Wikipedia: Jeff Koons
- Google Search: Jeff Koons Split-Rocker
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
