A Sunny Southern California Séjour

The 2026 International Council and Chairman’s Circle domestic trip brought members to sunny Southern California for a richly curated program of art, architecture, and hospitality. Over several days, guests enjoyed private access to some of the region’s most distinguished museums, alongside rare visits to exceptional private homes and collections. The itinerary was complemented by memorable meals highlighting seasonal California cuisine and wines.

The journey began in San Diego, where AFL arranged exclusive visits to significant private collections assembled by some of Southern California’s leading philanthropists. Highlights included works by Picasso, Anselm Kiefer, Jennifer Packer, and Nick Cave. The group was also welcomed to the San Diego Museum of Art for a special visit while the museum was closed to the public. There, Executive Director and CEO Roxana Velásquez led an insightful tour of the collection, which spans more than 7,000 years and encompasses European Old Masters, Spanish and Italian Renaissance works, and modern and contemporary art. She also shared plans for the museum’s ambitious expansion in Balboa Park, led by architect Norman Foster.

The San Diego program concluded with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla. Set against sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, the museum provided an extraordinary setting for a private exploration of its collection, including works by Yayoi Kusama, Vito Acconci, and Sadie Barnette. A particular highlight was the museum’s renowned Light and Space galleries, featuring installations by Robert Irwin, a central figure in the movement. MCASD holds the largest collection of Irwin’s work.

The group then traveled to Orange County for a full day at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, the region’s leading cultural hub. The visit included a brief ballet presentation and an intimate performance by Pacific Symphony Concertmaster Dennis Kim, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at rehearsals for an upcoming musical. Guests also visited the UC Irvine Langson Orange County Museum of Art. During lunch, members were treated to a private fashion presentation featuring new designs by Oscar de la Renta.

After another full day of private collection visits, the California program concluded in Newport Beach with a private reception and dinner aboard a 135-foot yacht, offering a celebratory close to an exceptional itinerary. AFL extends its sincere thanks to International Council member Elizabeth Segerstrom for her generous support of this program.