Dallas Museum of Art’s 54th Annual Art Ball Highlights Museum’s Permanent Collection
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Tamytha Cameron and George Fiala
THE SETTING: A picture-perfect evening on the beautiful grounds of the Dallas Museum of Art was the setting for one of Texas’ most anticipated annual fundraising events. The 54th annual Art Ball by the Dallas Museum of Art titled Form & Function: A Celebration of Craftsmanship Throughout the Collection showcased the beauty and breadth of the museum’s permanent collection. In all, several hundred of the state’s most influential and prominent art patrons, philanthropists and collectors attended to celebrate this beloved and iconic destination of the Arts.
THE STYLE: The fun began for the black-tie crowd with a lively cocktail hour where long-time friends reacquainted and new friends were made as they sipped cocktails courtesy of Belvedere, Glenmorangie, Hennessy and Ruinart. Partygoers were dazzled by the gorgeous décor inspired by the DMA’s permanent collection, with a moss green, dusty rose and raw wood palette that perfectly captured both the essence of the permanent collection and the late-spring evening. Adding to the fun was a mural sponsored by Neiman Marcus where patrons were invited to express their artistic side by coloring on the mural in bold and bright colors.
The festivities continued as guests took their seats to enjoy a delectable four course dinner catered by Cassandra Fine Catering, where the conversation flowed as freely as the wines that accompanied the meal. As the dessert portion was being served, the live auction commenced. Robbie Gordy of Christie’s helmed the spirited bidding which netted over $390,000 and included such luxe items as a Kenyan Safari, an exclusive fashion experience with Moda Operandi and a first-timer experience at the upcoming Two X Two for AIDS and Art. The evening was capped off with an after party where revelers danced the night away into the wee hours of the morning to the tunes of DJ Elusive.
THE PURPOSE: The event, co-chaired by Lindsey Collins and Amanda Shufeldt, raised funds for Dallas Museum of Art’s community engagement and education programs for the iconic Dallas institution that draws over 800,000 visitors annually. Over the past 54 years, DMA’s Art Ball has raised over $29 million to support this mission.