Southwest School of Art Gala Celebrates Mumbai By Moonlight Gala Theme
By Leanne Raesener Photography by Landers Photography
THE SETTING: The San Antonio rain cleared just in time to create a magical evening for the Southwest School of Art’s Mumbai by Moonlight Gala in the Garden presented by James Avery Artisan Jewelry. The evening’s scene was set with exotic décor and colorful displays to transport guests into a faraway land of beauty, entertainment, and exquisite culinary offerings.
In the McNutt Gardens under enormous tents, patrons were greeted by beautiful table settings featuring striking centerpieces created by Trinity Flowers and Events. With the perfect combination of lighting and sound provided by JSAV, patrons enjoyed each other’s company in the beautifully decorated gardens.
THE STYLE: The dinner, provided by Club Giraud, featured delectable curried lamb masala prepared flawlessly with basmati rice and lime-cilantro prawns. Konkan apricot cheesecake with toasted almonds and mint completed the meal. Guests in the Coates Chapel were treated to a wide variety of fine art by many noted artists and galleries, including original works by students in the Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree Program to enjoy and purchase, all benefiting the School.
Then, guests were treated to an outstanding Bharatanatyam performance by Kalalaya Indian Performing Arts and a dazzling Bollywood Fusion Dance from UTSA Sapna. After an evening of great food, fabulous friends, and top-notch entertainment, guests then moved to the Urschel Administrative Building for the Neiman Marcus Bollywood After Party. There they danced the night away to music by DJ Catwalk and delighted in a wide variety of treats presented by Neiman Marcus, the sponsor of the event’s after party since its inception in 2014.
THE PURPOSE: Courtney and Tobin Smith, Claire and Easton McNab, and Kate and Taylor Dawson co-chaired the event. The Southwest School of Art is the only independent college of art in Texas, and all proceeds from the gala benefit the operations of the organization.