The New Museum recently hosted its annual gala, a vibrant celebration that not only honored the esteemed director Lisa Phillips as she transitioned from her long-standing role but also underscored the dynamic future of downtown New York's art scene. The evening was a testament to Phillips' enduring legacy and the institution's commitment to fostering artistic innovation.
Celebrating a Legacy, Igniting the Future
A Night of Floral Splendor and Significant Milestones
Cipriani South Street was transformed into a blooming spectacle for The New Museum's yearly philanthropic gathering. Adorned with a profusion of pink and orange flowers, the venue mirrored the vibrant spirit of the attendees. Guests, many dressed in their finest floral-inspired ensembles, contributed to an atmosphere brimming with joy, lightness, and a sense of fresh beginnings, despite the absence of a formal dress code.
Honoring Lisa Phillips: A Quarter-Century of Artistic Leadership
The celebration primarily focused on recognizing the remarkable contributions of Lisa Phillips, the cherished Toby Devan Lewis director, who is stepping down after an impressive 27 years of service to the institution. A joyous announcement during the cocktail hour revealed that the gala had successfully surpassed previous fundraising achievements, collecting an astonishing $2.7 million and still counting, symbolizing strong support for the museum's vision.
Expanding Horizons: The New Museum's Second Home
Another focal point of the evening was the recent inauguration of the museum's second building. This new wing proudly features the expansive exhibition, "New Humans: Memories of the Future," showcasing thought-provoking pieces by artists such as Sophia Al-Maria, Berenice Olmedo, and Jamian Juliano-Villani, all exploring the intricate relationship between human creativity and advancing technology. The anticipation of a new café further adds to the museum's growing appeal. Prominent figures including Jeff Koons, Pamela Hanson, Jamie Singer Soros, and honorary committee chair Chloë Sevigny, elegantly dressed in Chloé florals, were among the many enthusiastic attendees.
The Enduring Appeal of Downtown Art
Chloë Sevigny conveyed to Vogue her admiration for the museum's exceptional curatorial standards, noting its unique position among downtown institutions. She highlighted the convenience for individuals enjoying nearby parks like Washington Square and Tompkins to easily access the museum, contrasting it with the often-intimidating journey to uptown cultural venues.
A Glimpse Inside the Gala: Art, Cuisine, and Community
Within the bustling event, guests socialized over sparkling pink bellinis, indulging in zucchini crisps and miniature club sandwiches. They also had the opportunity to admire and bid on exquisite artworks, including a silk charmeuse painting by Cindy Sherman and stoneware sculptures by Rashid Johnson, featured in a live auction. Many paused from the initial seating calls to capture moments with Lisa Phillips, whose transformative leadership included championing diverse contemporary artists, co-founding the innovative NEW INC incubator program, and co-curating six Whitney Biennials.
Lisa Phillips' Philosophy: Embracing Risk and Ethical Values
Phillips shared her guiding philosophy with Vogue, stating, "We instigate novel experiences, embrace risks, and fearlessly venture into unexplored territories. This embodies the essence of art—charting new courses, forging new paths, and accepting the possibility of setbacks." She further emphasized that "values supersede power," asserting that ethical principles are fundamental to all their endeavors. This distinct operational model, she noted, has proven highly effective for the museum.
An Evening of Tributes and Artistic Expressions
The main hall, bathed in purple and green lights matching the evening's program, became a hub for guests to savor caviar, steak, tri-colored carrots, and Phillips' favored saffron risotto. Following heartfelt addresses by John Waters, Maya Lin, and Adam Weinberg, Phillips received a thunderous ovation as she took the stage. Clad in a vibrant rosy Dries Van Noten jacket, she expressed profound gratitude to her colleagues, predecessors, and family, acknowledging the myriad artists and benefactors who have enriched the museum throughout the years.
A Grand Finale: Auctions and Celebratory Performances
Concluding the evening's formal proceedings, Sotheby’s vice president Phyllis Kao masterfully conducted a lively auction for bespoke portrait commissions by Jack Pierson and Billy Sullivan. The event culminated with a memorable performance by Debbie Harry, resplendent in a green suit and gold sailor cap, who captivated the audience with renditions of "One Way or Another" and "The Dream’s Lost on Me." DJ Stretch Armstrong then led the crowd in an exuberant dance party in the central hall, complete with meringue cake and tiramisu, providing a sweet and vibrant conclusion to a truly heartfelt and colorful celebration.
