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CAC ACTION ITEM - (1) Discussion of the Proposed Donation and Installation of the Historic MGM Sign; (2) Provide Recommendations to Staff for City Council as Appropriate
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Meeting Date: September 16, 2025
Contact Person/Dept: Sally Unsworth / City Manager - Office of Economic and Cultural Development
Phone Number: (310) 253-6003
Fiscal Impact: Yes [X] No [] General Fund: Yes [] No [X]
Public Hearing: [] Action Item: [X] Attachments: [X]
Public Notification: Meetings and Agendas - Cultural Affairs Commission (09/12/25)
Department Approval: Jesse Mays, Assistant City Manager (09/12/25)
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RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Cultural Affairs Commission (CAC):
1. Discuss the proposed donation and installation of the historic MGM Sign.
2. Provide feedback on the proposed process, including community engagement steps.
3. Make recommendations to the City Council regarding whether the City should accept the donation into the permanent art collection and approve its proposed installation and long-term care.
BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION:
Historic Significance
The MGM Sign is one of the most iconic symbols in Culver City's history as the "Heart of Screenland." The hand-painted double-sided sign, featuring Leo the Lion and the motto Ars Gratia Artis ("Art for Art's Sake"), is among the most widely recognized trademarks in film history. (See Attachment 1)
Sign Dimensions
The MGM Sign measures approximately:
* 14' tall
* 32' wide
* 3,000 lbs.
* Material: Steel
Early History
* Installed atop the MGM Wardrobe Building in the late 1920s.
* Relocated to Stage 6 in 1930, where it overlooked sound stages for more than sixty years.
* Originally included a "Studios" panel, later replaced with panels for current MGM films.
The 1987 Restoration and Re-Lighting
Restored and reinstalled in 1987 at the Filmland Corporate Center (10000 Washington Boulevard, now kn...
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