UCLA’s William Andrews Clark Memorial Library kicked off its centennial celebration with a special event celebrating the life and legacy of founder, William Andrews Clark Jr., and his often overlooked influence on the cultural development of Los Angeles.
On September 25, 2026, the afternoon began with the opening of the exhibit, Private Passions, Public Legacies: William Andrews Clark Jr. and the Making of Los Angeles, curated by Clark Library staff. Drawing primarily from the library’s collection, the exhibit explores Clark’s connections to the artists, musicians, architects, collectors, philanthropists, and civic leaders who helped shape the city’s cultural identity. It highlights his contributions to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the book arts and fine printing, astronomy, and the architectural and landscape design of his estate.
Following welcome remarks and an exhibition overview by Head Librarian Derek Christian Quezada Meneses, author Liz Brown presented a talk about Clark’s remarkable and complex life. Drawing on her 2021 book, Twilight Man: Love and Ruin in the Shadows of Hollywood and the Clark Empire, Brown explored Clark’s identity as an heir to a copper fortune, aspiring violinist, passionate book collector, and influential philanthropist. She also examined his private life, including his experience as a gay man in an era when much of his identity remained hidden, and the ways his personal passions helped shape the public life of Los Angeles.
Though less widely recognized than other prominent names in the city’s history, Clark’s influence can still be traced through cultural landmarks and institutions including the LA Philharmonic, Hollywood Bowl, Pershing Square, and Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Brown’s presentation and Q&A session offered an opportunity to reconsider the legacy of a figure whose contributions have often remained in the shadows.
The celebration concluded with an outdoor reception in the library’s Outdoor Reading Room and a book signing by Liz Brown. The event was livestreamed on the Center’s YouTube channel, and will remain on the Center’s channel for the duration of the centennial year.
The Private Passions, Public Legacies exhibit will remain on view through February 10, 2027 and can be viewed during scheduled programming, special events and organized public tours. Learn more about upcoming events here.