By Lookout Staff

February 27, 2026 -- Santa Monica has added a new artwork to its municipal Art Bank collection through a special partnership between the City and the Frieze Los Angeles art fair, officials announced Thursday.

Erica Mahinay’s artwork "Unfetter (Blue Gaze)," 2025 -- a 72 x 60 inches oil on linen from the Los Angeles-based contemporary gallery Make Room -- was selected from the fair’s Focus section at Frieze, which runs through Sunday.

(Above) Mahinay and City Cultural Affairs Manager Sofiz Klatzker next to selected painting

The section "exclusively features new voices and emerging galleries that have been operating for twelve years or less," the City's Cultural officials said.

"Focus was curated for a third year by Essence Harden, who recently curated the Hammer Museum’s acclaimed 'Made in LA' exhibit in 2025 and is set to curate Expo Chicago later this spring," officials said.

Mahinay’s work was selected by a jury panel that included Santa Monica Arts Commission representative Marla C. Berns, The Brick Deputy Director and Curator Catherine Taft and Frieze Director of Americas Christine Messineo.

"The acquisition and partnership underscore Santa Monica’s long-standing commitment to supporting artists and investing in the creative economy as a vital driver of cultural and economic vitality," Ciy officials said in a statement.

In addition to the Art Bank acquisition, the City has worked with Frieze to bring large scale and site-specific artwork for public view, including the temporary public artwork displayed outdoors at or near Santa Monica Airport Park through Sunday.

“Creativity lies at the heart of Santa Monica’s identity and is vital to the strength of our local economy,” Mayor Caroline Torosis said in a statement.

“Our artists, designers and cultural leaders shape the spirit of this city, draw visitors from around the world, and spark innovation across industries.

"Through our partnership with Frieze, we are not only positioning Santa Monica on the global art stage but also deepening our commitment to championing emerging talent and ensuring the arts remain a vibrant, enduring pillar of our community,” Torosis said.

For more information about Frieze Los Angeles in Santa Monica click here