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 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 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
by societytexas | Feb 28, 2022 | Invite, 2022 March April, San Antonio
Charity Ball Association Celebrates Million-Dollar Fundraising Evening
By Jake Gaines Photography by Jenna Beth Lyde
THE SETTING: The Charity Ball Association (CBA) of San Antonio’s 66th Chrysanthemum Ball was held at the Witte Museum’s Mays Family Center, with a record-breaking $1 million of funds raised by the almost 600 supporters in attendance. With pandemic protocol in place, the black-tie clad and elegantly attired guests, arrived on a 100-foot-long red carpet through a floral fantasy arch. They were then ushered into the Zachery Garden for a cocktail reception while the talented Youth Orchestra, San Antonio (YOSA), played in the background.
THE STYLE: Guests entered The Mays Family Center, greeted by a 15-foot-tall ice sculpture, in the shape of a birdcage, by award-winning Buddy Rasmussen. It mimicked the invitation design created by Elizabeth Roberts and was framed with floral details and jeweled butterflies, which encircled the base of the sculpture with magenta lighting highlighting the etched ice. Magenta, which represents universal harmony and emotional balance, was selected as the evening’s primary color palette by CBA President Terrie Musselman and Décor Chair Gayle Embrey. Complementing magenta were additional shades of lavender, green and white represented in the floral arrangements, along with jeweled butterflies that dotted the room.
The décor and floral design by Danny Cueller of Trinity Flowers was perfection with the ballroom’s beautifully adorned tables covered with oversized vases supporting a burst of colorful flowers. The centerpiece arrangements included magenta flowers, Pink Floyd roses, green hydrangeas, Queen Anne’s lace, green amaranth, curly willow, silver dollar-seeded eucalyptus, and the organization’s signature logo flower, green chrysanthemums. Meanwhile, a giant pergola of a floral effusion was installed over the dance floor.
The dinner began with entertainment by a dance orchestra. This year’s program was emceed by Albert Steves, assisted by his wife and sponsor member, Tricia Steves, with Carrie Catalani orchestrating an elaborate and exciting presentation of Prizes & Prize drawings. As the night progressed, guests savored decadent hors d’oeuvres, all by Rosemary’s Catering. Wine pairings were an elegant and perfect accompaniment to the gourmet meal. The evening was capped off by entertainment by the band, Blind Date of Austin.
THE PURPOSE: The special, unique, and memorable night was helmed by CBS Chairman of the Board Lynn Ziegler, President Terrie Musselman, and the many committees that orchestrated the festivities. The 2020 and 2021 combined gala Diamond Chrysanthemum Patrons were the Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation, Charity Ball Legacy Foundation, Kittie Nelson Ferguson Foundation, and the Mays Family Foundation. Even with the unusual year in 2020, the Charity Ball raised over one million dollars under the chairmanship of the 2020 Vice President for Patrons, Kelly Kennedy, and then again raised over one million dollars in 2021 under the Vice President for Patrons, Ellen O’Gorman.
The organization is so very grateful for The Charity Ball Legacy Foundation, which made a significant contribution of $125,000 in 2020 and an increased donation in 2021 of $180,000 to The Charity Ball Association. During these past two years, under the guidance of Sharon Seal, Vice President of Charities, a rigorous process was developed to determine the 36 charities to be funded in Bexar County. As a result, many needs were met for these children, such as food, shelter, clothing, safety, education, disabilities (both intellectual and developmental), and improved playground facilities.
The Charity Ball Association graciously acknowledged decades of giving by Cavender Cadillac. The Charity Ball Association of San Antonio supports the children of Bexar County by distributing grants each year since 1954, now totaling more than $24 million. The organization’s tenet is Children Benefit Always.
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by societytexas | Nov 1, 2020 | 2020 November December, Parties, San Antonio
The Texas Biomedical Forum Celebrates Fifty Years Of Triumphs
By Jake Gaines Photography by Super Q Photography
THE SETTING: Over 50 years ago, Dottie Block, Tena Gorman, and Ruth Eileen Sullivan had the vision and creativity to launch Southwest Research Forum, today known as the Texas Biomedical Forum. The Forum extended their thanks to President & CEO of the Texas Biomedical Research Institute, Larry Schlesinger, M.D., its scientists, along with the past presidents, all who have paved the way for making the world a better place, one research project at a time. This year’s Forum President was Amy Swaney.
THE STYLE: The Forum’s activities actually began last November, when the Fall Lecture Luncheon, one of their educational outreaches to the community, took place. Then, the Past President’s Luncheon was held, and the 3rd annual Cheers for CHAIRity event followed in late February. At the beginning of March, pre-COVID-19, the Spring Lecture Luncheon hosted three panelists. Suzanne Dabbous, M.D. (Radiologist and Past Forum President), Jean Patterson, Ph.D. (Professor) and Angelica M. Olmo-Fontanez, M.S. (Graduate Student/Biomedical Researcher) who discussed the Routes of Success: From Early to Established Careers Women Discuss Pathways in STEM. To top off the year, the Charles Butt Foundation presented a check for $50,000 designated to the Forum’s K-12 grant program and generously agreed to do so for three consecutive years. The 50th Anniversary 2020 Forum Gala, chaired by Whitney Schones and Karen Bryant, with The Starry Night as its theme, was regrettably cancelled due to the virus. Table sponsors were asked to consider allowing the organization to donate their sponsorship dollars intended for the 2020 gala directly to COVID-19 research. Through their generosity, Texas Biomed received close to $325,000 for this urgently needed critical research. Cynthia Kirby will serve as the 2020-2021 Forum President.
THE PURPOSE: The purpose of the Texas Biomedical Forum is to support the Texas Biomedical Research Institute through community relations, volunteer services, and fundraising. Over the years, the Forum’s fundraising efforts have raised approximately $3.2 million to be used in pilot studies. These grants are sometimes known as “seed grants” because they are relatively small, but the ideas they power can grow to become immensely impactful. This funding has allowed researchers to apply for additional grant monies in excess of $75 million in subsequent awards for large-scale research projects, which equates to approximately twenty-three dollars in return for every dollar of Forum grants. In commemoration of their 50th year, the Forum is grateful to have received three $100,000 grant matches from the Gorman Family Foundation, the Mays Foundation, and the Sullivan Family Foundation. The generosity of these three donor matches has allowed the Forum to give a little over $400,000 to the scientists’ pilot studies this year, making a total of $800,000 in contributions to Texas Biomed in 2020.
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