Frequently Asked Questions

Who is behind ArtPORT LA? 

ArtPORT LA is a dba of Unycyn Civic Arts, a non-profit organization, creating a civic-scale legacy project for Los Angeles at the Port of LA.  The organization, dedicated to the “art of being civic”, was founded and is led by Cynthia Hirschhorn and includes a governing board with community and arts advisory committees.

Who is funding the organization?

The project is funded by individual patrons and receives in-kind support from the Port of LA and City of Los Angeles.  We will soon seek support from corporate sponsors, foundations and other entities.  We also aim to form partnerships that align and enhance existing resources.

How will you sustain your operations?

At scale, the project is designed to generate revenue through activities hosted at the visitor center, artist editions, a “friends of” group, and a philanthropic endowment to sustain and grow operations.

How much do you need to raise for launch by 2028?

The program will adapt to resources received.  An estimated $11 million would provide funding for the first phase of artworks in the park and capital for the development of the visitor center.  The sculpture park can launch independently of the visitor center. 

How much do you need this year?

This year we are setting up the infrastructure necessary to design and install the artwork foundation pads in the park, secure artist commitments, and produce design development of the visitor center.  $1 million will accomplish this phase.

Where does the art come from?  Is it permanent?

ArtPORT LA is curating a rotating, contemporary sculpture exhibition program.  As a non-collecting entity, the artworks will be exhibited on loan for over a year, and rotate out for new works to cycle in. The program includes existing artworks as well as some invitation-based site-specific commissions. A full security and maintenance detail will accompany all artworks on exhibition.

Who chooses the art?

The art advisory committee plays an instrumental role in advising the ArtPORT LA team about appropriate and relevant sculpture for this unique, outdoor marine location.  Sculptures will be chosen from a variety of sources, including globally renown artists, Los Angeles arts institutions, galleries and private collections.  The visitor center will host a robust 3D arts education and fabrication program to accompany the park exhibition program.

Who is the project for? 

ArtPORT LA’s sculpture park and visitor center is truly for everyone.  Surrounded by a residential community, the Western Hemisphere’s busiest commercial port, a cruise port of call serving millions of passengers per year, and a new retail waterfront development estimated to serve 4 million people a year, ArtPORT LA will welcome neighbors, regional visitors, and cultural tourists from near and far to experience the region’s only large-scale sculpture park.

How is the community involved?

ArtPORT LA is supported by a community advisory committee. The visitor center will function as a community hub, where residents can enjoy classes, workshops or even utilize fabrication equipment to create 3D artwork.  Local artists will be invited to exhibit their work throughout the visitor center campus.  ArtPORT LA is a member of the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce.

What else do you need to make this a reality?

Over $1.5 million has already been invested in the project, and that number is growing.  Partners of all types are welcome - including financial supporters, construction and installation resources, arts education programing, marketing and communications, etc.  The more support we receive as soon as possible, the more art and programming we can share in time for the 2028 Olympic Games. 

Why are you doing this?  Why now?

This project offers a beacon of light for people like us who care deeply about Los Angeles, the global community, and have a passion for art as a means to humanize and connect us all, especially In these unprecedented and uncertain times.

The world’s attention will soon be even more focused on Los Angeles, with the Olympic Games sailing venue in San Pedro sited within walking distance of the park.  We’re excited to contribute to this unique moment and create a regional cultural legacy project at the LA Waterfront.

Are there other sculpture parks or projects that have inspired the ArtPORT LA vision?

Absolutely! The High Line, Socrates Sculpture Park, Storm King, Dia Beacon, Franconia, and Gibbs Farm, to name just a few.