by Lance | Jun 26, 2023 | Parties, Blog, San Antonio
Artpace San Antonio Celebrates Artist Residency Alumni Sir Isaac Julien
By Lance Avery Morgan Photography by Abraham Aguillon Orsagh
The Setting: Artpace San Antonio celebrated its Artist Residency alum, Sir Isaac Julien, and Emeritus Board Member, Janet Lennie Flohr, at An Intimate Evening with Sir Isaac Julien. The event included a cocktail reception, dinner in Artpace’s Hudson Showroom, and an after-dinner rooftop lounge featuring music by Carbonlily. The floral designs were created by Statue of Design, and the cuisine was provided by Rosemary’s Catering.
The Style: Guests learned from Honorees Sir Isaac Julien and Janet Lennie Flohr about the essential role Artpace’s International Artist-in-Residency program plays in the local, regional, national, and international contemporary art communities. Since its founding in 1995 by artist and philanthropist Linda Pace (1945-2007), Artpace has hosted 275 artists through its world-renowned residency chosen by 89 of the world’s leading contemporary art curators. Artpace Artist Residency Endowment Chairs Rick Liberto and Patricia Ruiz-Healy encouraged guests to continue to be a part of the organization’s goals.
Sir Isaac Julien, RA (b.1960) is a critically acclaimed British artist and filmmaker. Julien is the recipient of numerous awards, including a coveted Turner Prize nomination in 2001 for his films, one of which he created during his residency at Artpace in 1999. He was made a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2017 and granted a knighthood as part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Honours List 2022. His most recent exhibition, What Freedom Is To Me, is a 40-year survey of his work currently on view at the Tate Britain.
The Purpose: Event Chairs AnaPaula and Mark Watson helmed the stellar evening. Artpace San Antonio is a nonprofit residency program which supports Texas, national, and international artists in the creation of new art. The organization is committed to providing the public the opportunity to challenge themselves to expand the bounds of creativity and engagement.
by Lance | Jun 21, 2023 | Parties, Blog, San Antonio
San Antonio’s McNay Museum Luncheon Has Misty Copeland As Guest Speaker
By Lance Avery Morgan Photography by David Sixt Photography
Houston Frost, Rachel Drake, Lou Celia Frost, Misty Copeland, Don Frost, CeCe Griffin and James Griffin
Carla Brozovich and Misty Copeland
THE SETTING: It was the perfect day for the McNay Art Museum to host a luncheon that featured Misty Copeland, a world-renowned ballerina with the American Ballet Theatre, one of the three leading classical ballet companies in the United States, as the keynote speaker. In addition to her dance career, Copeland has become a public speaker, celebrity spokesperson and stage performer. She has written two autobiographical books and narrated a documentary about her career challenges, A Ballerina’s Tale.
Deborah Roberts and Misty Copeland
THE STYLE: A budding art collector of African American Art, Copeland has works in her collection by Ndidi Emefiele, Nathaniel Mary Quinn, Lorna Simpson, and Deborah Roberts, who is also in the McNay’s collection. Copeland is an avid philanthropist and an ambassador for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, of which she is also an alum. In 2022, she launched The Misty Copeland Foundation, with its first signature program BE BOLD, which aims to bring greater diversity, equity, and inclusion to dance, especially ballet. This year’s luncheon chair was Cece Frost Griffin, and the committee was Carla Brozovich, Amelita Mauze, Sarah Moore, Emilie Petty, and Corinna Richter.
Lou Celia Frost, Lila Malone, Bonnie Chumbley, CeCe Frost Friffin and Jeanne Alfaro
Sarah Moore, Catharine Vexler, Dr. Sara McCamish and Hannah Hudson Beard
THE PURPOSE: The McNay extends special thanks to The Bennett Prize, the Luncheon Title Sponsor, and acknowledges the significant funding from the Louis A. and Frances B. Wagner Endowment for Misty Copeland’s participation. Generous underwriting support is provided by the John R. and Greli N. Charitable Trust, and Frost Bank, Trustee. The McNay Art Museum engages a diverse community in the discovery and enjoyment of the visual arts. It is San Antonio’s place of belonging, where the Museum’s expanding community is reflected in transformational art experiences.
Misty Copeland with the Boys and Girls Club of San Antonio guests
Matthew McLendon, Don Frost, CeCe Frost Griffin,Darryl Byrd and Misty Copeland
Luncheon guests
Sarah Moore, Emilie Petty CeCe Frost Griffin, Misty Copeland, Amelita Mauze, Carla Brozovich and Corinna Richter
by Lance | Jun 17, 2023 | Parties, Austin, Blog
Museum Unveils New Grounds At Dazzling 60th Anniversary Gala
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Sloan Breeden Photography
Judy Tate
Simone Wicha, Ross Moody and Elle Moody
THE PURPOSE: It was a stunning spring night at the Blanton Museum of Art where 350 of Texas’ (and the country’s) most notable art patrons and sociables gathered for an unforgettable night of art, fun, and fundraising. The Blanton Museum of Art’s 60th anniversary gala highlighted its storied history with an epic gala and it’s perfectly named theme, A New Landscape, that celebrated the completed transformation of the museum’s New Grounds Initiative that was over a decade in the making.
Carrie Healy and Clayton Maebius
The scene at the Blanton Museum Of Art 2023 gala
THE STYLE: The artful, black-tie crowd was dazzled from the second they walked up to the newly transformed grounds, where patrons were mesmerized by the white petal installation. The refraction of the early evening sun against a permanent installation of three-story tall white petals highlighted the installation. It created a magical glow around the entire space where many could be seen taking images and videos of these exquisite new grounds…and the art that adorns it. The installation, located on the Moody Patio of the Blanton Museum, allows the public to view and take in this space for free.
Suzanne Deal Booth and LeMel Humes
Anthony Grant and Jack Shear
Revelers then explored the grounds both inside and outside the museum for a lively cocktail hour, where after partygoers enjoyed a glass of Veuve Clicquot champagne, and mingled as they toasted and celebrated the significant and historical artistic milestone of one of the state’s most beloved and world-class art institutions. Additionally, guests could be seen taking photos on a gorgeous step and repeat to commemorate the night.
Chris Hyams, Emma Hyams and Mazie Hyams
Linda van Bavel and Sarah Butler
Patrons then headed to the beautifully erected tent on the exterior museum grounds for the evening’s main program. The open aired tent allowed for the picture-perfect weather to envelop the space as guests had stunning views of the Texas State Capitol to the south and Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin, located on the grounds of the Blanton Museum, to the north. As guests dined on a delectable, multi-course meal, they were treated to words from organization leaders, board members, and prominent supporters of the organization.
Jasmine and Lamarr Houston, Kenyon Adams, Suzanne McFayden & Christian Palominos
Jill Wilkinson and Holly Borham
The festivities continued with a “petals up” auction, that offered a clever spin to the traditional paddles up auction, while serving as a nod to the new installation which raised over $250,000. The evening was capped off with a toast by Blanton Museum Director Simone Wicha, who perfectly summed up the night by saying “I’m really proud of what we are doing together. The journey of the Blanton, from its layered history to today, to where we are going is all built on people…artists and visitors, teachers and students, alumni and residents, alumni and local residents, university partners and business leaders all who keep the museum vibrant and flowing.”
Lara and Bill Perkins
Rob Giardinelli, Kelli Blanton and Lance Avery Morgan
THE PURPOSE: The event raised over $1.3 million for the Blanton Museum of Art. Proceeds raised from the event will help fund exhibitions as well as education and public programs.
by Lance | Jun 12, 2023 | Parties, Blog, San Antonio
Texas Biomedical Forum Celebrates With Gala
By Sallie Lewis Photography by Katie Clementson of Billo Smith Photography
THE SETTING: Recently, The Argyle was in full bloom for the 52nd annual Texas Biomedical Forum Gala. Every year, this event is one of the most anticipated soirees of the spring season–and this year was no exception. Gala Co-Chairs Triana Grossman and Gloria Dilley presented this year’s theme, Birds of a Feather Flock Together, in honor of the covey of women who’ve helped the Forum fly to new heights since its founding in 1970. And are the women of the past, present, and future who’ve made a lasting impact on our community.
On a balmy Saturday evening, hundreds of people descended on The Argyle’s front lawn, where live finches greeted guests from inside a beautiful antique birdcage. Cocktails were served beneath a soaring sail tent that was fashioned with a Greek key trim, draped twinkle lights, and fresh flowers in every imaginable shade of pink. The gala’s custom crest, with its floral and avian motifs, was painted onto the event’s large circular bar and dance floor, while DJ RomiQ and the Dallas String Quartet (DSQ) played onstage amidst a meadow of flowering cherry blossom trees. Elsewhere in the tent, chic lounge areas in shades of ivory and celadon flanked tall folding screens wrapped in Gucci’s Green Heron wallpaper. Linda West, the Dallas-based fortune teller and cheeky “Lipsologist,” also brought her lip-print reading prowess to the celebration this year.
Texas Biomedical Forum Gala Committee 2023
Miguel and Gloria Dilley & Triana and Brandon Grossman
Amelita Mauze, Avril Byrne, Lauren Biegler, Allegra Hawkins, Adrianna Grossman, Christina Ketabchi, Megan Steves, Bonnie Muecke, Amy Berg and Elaine Vornsand
Tracee Feik, Jessica Berg, Heather deRojas, Nancy Finney, Ashley Campbell, Angel Myers, Amy Garcia and Rita Feik
THE STYLE: The 2023 Ribbon Pull was another highlight of the event–and one that helped bolster the fundraising goals. Four glimmering life-size trees draped with red ribbons and acrylic birds revealed a medley of prizes, from gift cards to Kelly Wade Jewelers to local fitness, beauty, and photography packages. Later, guests were treated to a magical, candlelit dinner inside the club. Fresh garlands woven with lush green vines, hot pink peonies, fragrant roses, and cherry blossoms graced every room and table in what was surely one of the most glamorous nights at The Argyle on record. The three-course menu thoughtfully paid homage to the night’s avian theme, from the club’s favorite chicken fried quail to a decadent chocolate Faberge egg presented in a phyllo nest for dessert.
Clark Mandigo lll, Camille Mandigo, Clark Mandigo ll, Kay Mandigo, Keri and John Moses & Molly Mandigo
Christopher and Adrianna Grossman, Heather Russo, Cece Griffin, Lee Lee, Emilie and Christopher Petty & Amelita and David Mauze
JB and Corinna Richter & Jordana and Benjie Matthews
As the night progressed, Forum members and guests alike bid on silent auction items that ranged from fine jewelry by David Webb and Fannie Thomas, to premium Formula 1 tickets, mink shawls by Mackenzie Brittingham, and trips to Tuscany and Laguna Beach. Dallas-based jeweler Joe Pacetti donated jewelry to the auction as well. Undoubtedly, the night’s most precious prizes came from the five-month-old French Bulldog and three-month-old Goldendoodle puppy, both of whom made the rounds all evening with fresh floral collars.
Emilie Petty, Gloria Dilley, Claire Cavender, Triana Grossman and Bonnie Muecke
Ann Cross, Kristan Northington, Alice Welder and Margye Northington
After the party, guests returned to the whimsical tent for an after party featuring live music and late-night bites. Before flying the nest, guests left with a parting gift courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue, who generously donated their popular Nest candles to all in attendance. It was an evening to remember–and one for the record books.
The scene at the Texas Biomed 2023 gala
Table setting at the Texas Biomed 2023 gala
THE PURPOSE: This year’s event grossed over $1 million, which will help spearhead and support the groundbreaking research at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute. A special thanks goes to Batchelor Cadillac and Cavender Cadillac for their sponsorships which make such a difference.
by Lance | Jun 10, 2023 | Blog
By Lance Avery Morgan Photos courtesy of Hotel Zaza Memorial City
We love that Hotel Zaza Memorial City offers something more than other luxe hotels. Much, much more.
In fact, there’s something for just about anyone. The venue offers a haven of oversized, well-appointed accommodations, thought-provoking art, and over 11,000 square feet of extraordinary meeting and event space. How cool is that?
Bringing the style and service of a luxury resort to Houston and elevating the experience of business travel as well as weekend getaways and staycations, this uniquely chic boutique hotel boasts a collection of 159 guestrooms, including concept suites and The Magnificent Seven Suites accompanied by exceptional dining, signature spa treatments and a poolside oasis. Big Easy, Havana, American Beauty, Black Gold, Beach House, Breathless, French Connection, Passage To India, Godfather, and more, are just a few of the suite themes.
Our two favorite spots to enjoy first upon arrival: the pool and The Tipping Point restaurant. First, the pool: It’s all happening at the venue’s glamorous, resort-style Houston hotel pool, also known as The Beach Club. Featuring plush benches and chic chaise lounges, this stylish urban oasis is the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. It’s also a great gathering spot because the outdoor bar serves refreshing signature cocktails, while poolside al fresco dining is available at Tipping Point Restaurant and Terrace. It offers an al fresco dining and a lounge experience that rivals the best restaurants in Houston. Offering a view overlooking the Beach Club, it’s a true destination within itself and a proud addition to the tradition of Memorial City Houston restaurants. Foodies are welcome. You’ll want to try everything.
Want to be perfectly pampered while you are poolside? Choose the full body polish for two guests followed by a thorough lathering of sunscreen or tanning oil and a glass of bubbly to kick off your day in the sun with the 25 minutes treatment per person. Then there’s the Cabana Day package that includes a private cabana for four with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Rose Champagne accompanied by a lavish fruit & cheese amenity on your arrival day. Plus, there is a $200 poolside food and beverage credit and a valet parking for one vehicle per night.
Nestled in the heart of Houston’s affluent Memorial neighborhood, Hotel ZaZa Memorial City is the perfect getaway destination choice, so what are you waiting for? For more information, visit here.
by Lance | Jun 6, 2023 | Parties, Blog, San Antonio
Sarah Hoover and CeCe Barfield Thompson Create Lively Conversation About The Arts
By Lance Avery Morgan Photography by Tony Garcia Photography
Sofiane Sylve, Kristin Tips, Marie Mays,, Claire McNab and Gloria Steves Dilley.
THE SETTING: Recently, it was the perfect day for a luncheon when Sarah Hoover, a renowned art historian, writer, and consultant, along with interior designer CeCe Barfield Thompson visited San Antonio to share their affinity for the arts. We love that Ballet San Antonio’s annual fundraising luncheon is always a favorite with the sociables in San Antonio.
Jenevieve Zoch, Allison Reyes, Sage Blount, Ashley Friedman, Rachel Halliday, and Sarah Geibel
Chaired by Marie Mays, the event led thought-provoking conversations on the importance of the arts and the profound impact it will holds for generations to come. Additionally, Hoover and Thompson shared why they admire ballet and how the art has influenced their lives.
Sarah Hoover, Marie Mays, CeCe Barfield Thompson and Corinna Richter
THE STYLE: “Our Annual Luncheon is a fun and engaging event that helps us raise funds to advance our mission to share the splendor of dance through diverse artistic performances and outreach programs, nurture exceptional professional dancers and make dance accessible to the widest possible audiences,” said Evin Eubanks, CEO of Ballet San Antonio.
CeCe Barfield Thompson and Sarah Hoover
The mission of Ballet San Antonio, a professional ballet company, is to share the splendor of dance through diverse artistic performances and outreach programs that reflect, promote and enrich the cultural heritage of the South Texas community.
Bonnie Muecke, CeCe Frost Griffin, Meredith Howard, Emilie Petty and Amelita Mauze
THE PURPOSE: BSA holds an uncompromising commitment to continually attract and nurture exceptional professional dancers, create distinctive performances, and make dance accessible to the widest possible audiences through partnerships with local organizations. For more information and to learn how to support, visit here.
Clara Ostrander, Maddie Allen, Rachel Halliday, and Nicola Bathie McLaughlin
The scene at the Ballet San Antonio luncheon
