Frieze Projects' 'Body & Soul' stages site-specific work across L.A. - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Jane Horowitz

February 24, 2026

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Frieze Projects’ "Body & Soul" initiative has brought a series of site-specific art installations to Los Angeles, aiming to expand the reach of Frieze Los Angeles beyond its traditional audience. This year’s event, running from February 26 to March 1 at Santa Monica Airport, features eight thought-provoking works spread across the airport campus and surrounding areas. The program, curated by Christine Messineo, seeks to position Frieze as a civic platform rather than just a commercial art fair, engaging people who might not typically attend high-end art events. One of the most notable installations is Patrick Martinez’s neon billboards displaying James Baldwin’s quote, "If I Love You," which doubles as both promotional material for the fair and standalone works of art. These signs, along with others like "Abolish ICE" and "No Body Is Illegal," highlight themes of immigration and social justice, reflecting Martinez’s long-standing commitment to addressing pressing societal issues through his art. The initiative also includes diverse projects such as Amanda Ross-Ho’s durational performance involving a 16-foot inflatable Earth rolled around a soccer field, Cosmas & Damian Brown’s interactive fountain with ceramic heads, and Shana Hoehn’s large-scale sculpture made from a fallen tree sourced by Santa Monica’s Urban Forest program. Frieze’s public art program is designed to bring art to new audiences, including those who may not purchase tickets or visit galleries. By integrating works in non-traditional spaces like a former Westwood Village newsstand and across public areas, the fair aims to amplify Los Angeles’ cultural landscape and connect with people from all walks of life. This approach not only broadens access to art but also underscores its role as a platform for addressing pressing social issues, such as immigration and community engagement. This focus on accessibility and relevance is particularly meaningful in today’s context, where public spaces offer opportunities to foster dialogue and awareness about critical societal challenges. By extending the fair’s reach through site-specific installations, Frieze Los Angeles is not only redefining itself as a cultural hub but also ensuring that art remains an inclusive and impactful force in society.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/24/2026