After almost 40 years of showcasing functional art and supporting emerging artists, the beloved Lois Lambert Gallery in Santa Monica will permanently close its doors on September 30, 2025. Gallery owner Lois Lambert announced the difficult decision, citing escalating operational costs and mounting financial challenges that have made it impossible to continue running the establishment.
The gallery has a rich history dating back to 1987, when it first opened as the Gallery of Functional Art. It holds the distinction of being the very first tenant in Frank Gehry's iconic Edgemar building in Santa Monica. In 1994, Lambert made the strategic decision to relocate the gallery to Bergamot Station, where it was rebranded as Lois Lambert Gallery and continued to thrive for decades.
Throughout its nearly four-decade run, the gallery has established itself as a significant cultural institution, representing more than 100 emerging and mid-career artists from around the globe. The diverse roster has included talented creators from the United States, Latin America, South America, Europe, and Asia, with exhibitions featuring an extensive range of mediums including painting, sculpture, mixed media, and photography.
The gallery space evolved over the years to better serve artists and visitors alike. Adjacent to the main exhibition area, the Our Gallery Store provided customers with access to high-design and artist-made objects. In 2017, Lambert expanded the facility further by adding the Project Room and Upstairs Gallery, creating additional exhibition spaces that allowed for more diverse programming and greater opportunities for artist representation.
Facing the reality of her situation, Lambert expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the community that supported her vision for so many years. "I can no longer bear the expense of running the gallery, and it's time to step away," she stated, acknowledging the financial pressures that ultimately led to this decision.
To commemorate the gallery's legacy and provide one final opportunity for art lovers to acquire pieces, Lambert will host a comprehensive Going Out of Business sale throughout the month of September 2025. The sale will feature escalating discounts designed to move inventory: 20 to 30 percent off during the first week of September, 30 to 40 percent off in the second week, and 40 to 50 percent off during the third week, with even steeper reductions in the final week depending on remaining inventory levels.
While the physical gallery space will close, Lambert has indicated that her connection to the art world will continue in a modified capacity. She plans to remain available for consultations and professional advice via telephone for those who may need her expertise. Additionally, she has expressed interest in organizing pop-up exhibitions in the future, with details and updates to be shared through email communications with her established network of collectors, artists, and art enthusiasts. "Thank you for being part of this journey," Lambert wrote in her announcement, signing off with deep appreciation for the community that supported her gallery's mission for nearly four decades.
