There can't be many firsts left for perennial bad-boy artist Damien Hirst, and on Thursday night he ticked off another one: his debut L.A. show. Crowding into the Gagosian Gallery to ogle the Brit's work—huge paintings, inspired by stained-glass church windows and constructed out of butterfly wings—were movie and music stars (Kirsten Dunst, Courtney Love), moguls (Barry Diller, Paul Allen), stylemakers (Tara Subkoff, Frankie Rayder, Mario Testino), and one Governator (yes, even Arnie gave Hirst his two thumbs up). Allen reportedly took home a few pieces for his personal collection, but Testino claimed the price tag was too much for his tastes. "I like to buy the works of newer contemporary artists that are on their way up," said the eagle-eyed Peruvian photographer.

For the fashion element, the biggest surprise of the night may have been when designer Tory Burch arrived with Lance Armstrong. The pair, who have been linked by the tabloids, added to the speculation by declining to have their picture taken together. Meanwhile, a mobbed Hirst reflected on his surroundings. "I don't spend that much time here," said the artist as he headed to a very L.A. dinner at Mr. Chow, a few doors down. "But it's pretty interesting—to a point."

— Sarah Cristobal