The University of California, Irvine (UCI) announced the acquisition of the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) on Sept. 29, uniting the two institutions under a new name: the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art.
The merge combines more than 9,000 artworks between two campuses: the 53,000 square foot museum located in Costa Mesa and the Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum in Irvine. The partnership marks a major step in UCI’s objective to expand its culture across the region, according to UCI Assistant Vice Chancellor of Communications and Media Relations Michael Uhlenkamp.
“There are a great many synergies for this new partnership,” Uhlenkamp said. “For UC Irvine, the museum acquisition allows us to expand [our] brand further into Orange County and provide even more opportunities for the community to be exposed to the wonderful art that has been shared with the university throughout the years.”
According to a statement by UC Irvine News, UCI Chancellor Howard Gillman said the merge reflects UC Irvine’s commitment to supporting a world-class art museum. The new museum will advance art scholarship, enrich Orange County’s culture and inspire curiosity and connection across different audiences. It will also bring local artists and works from the museum’s archives to broader audiences, according to ARCS.
The Costa Mesa site, designed by Pritzker Prize-winner Thom Mayne and valued at $98 million, will continue to host contemporary art exhibits and public programs, with the addition of new collaborations between university researchers and regional artists. The Irvine site will continue to focus on research, education and student training, according to the University of California.
The transition is progressing smoothly and UCI has big plans for the future of the OCMA, according to Uhlenkamp.
“Our talented team in Human Resources has been in continuous contact with new employees to welcome them to the UC Irvine family and ensure a smooth transition,” Uhlenkamp said. “The OCMA story is far from over. This is simply the next chapter for a storied institution that has showcased art to the Orange County community for more than 60 years.”
The acquisition marks a new chapter for both institutions, solidifying UC Irvine’s position as a hub for artistic collaboration and ensuring the region’s creative legacy continues to grow.
