Madison Square Park Conservancy Benefit Celebrates Martin Friedman's 60-Year Career In the Arts:
Some 300 art stars including David Hockney , Chuck Close in his brilliant African-patterned cloth suit, Christo, John Currin, John Baldessari, Lawrence Weiner, wife of John Currin, a smiling, platinum-haired Cindy Sherman, the always chic Yvonne LaForce in sequins, the Whitney's Adam Weinberg, Arnold Glimcher, Frank Gehry, Frank Stella, (to name just a few) toasted the legendary Mr. Friedman and enjoyed a marvelous dinner at the St. George Ballroom (a hidden gem). The money raised supports the park's pubic art program.

---

El Museo del Barrio GALA AT CIPRIANI, a Salute to Narciso Rodriquez:
A gorgeous, energetic crowd gathered at Cipriani to honor the multi-talented designer, Narciso Rodriguez and philanthropist ... Read More

On the lovely late Spring day of Thursday, June 7th, The Asia Foundation held Second Annual Lotus Leadership Awards Luncheon at Central Park's Loeb Boathouse. The afternoon kicked off at 11:30 am with crisp light cocktails and a viewing of various works of fine art. As attendees slowly arrived the allure of select paintings, courtesy of event partner National Geographic, became an instant draw.

The luncheon, which recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations that have made major contributions to the well being of women in Asia, began promptly at 12:00 noon. Following a brief welcome by The Asia Foundation President David D. Arnold, Event Chair Ida Liu took the helm as Mistress of Ceremonies. Liu, the VP of North America Asian Clients Group at Citi, a recognized and prominent member of The Asia Foundation, was the consummate host.

Shortly following her greeting, Liu introduced ... Read More

As every year, the Pierre Hotel was the perfect setting of the Calvary Hospital Gala Awards-- the 29th Annual Calvary Hospital Gala Awards. This year's honoree was American Express Vice Chairman Ed Gilligan with Mary and William Buckley, Diahn W. and Thomas McGrath, and Kathleen and Stratford Wallace are Gala Co-Chairs. John A. Decina, AIA, Chief Executive Officer, Barr & Barr, Inc. and Dennis M. Schneider, President, Transervice Lease Corp. as Journal Co-Chairs.

The cocktail hour meant a grand ballroom that was quickly filled by Calvary Hospital sponsors, workers, and supporters all dressed in near black tie regalia and happily enjoying the delicious hors d'ourveres ranging from chilled shrimp and sushi to a lavish charcuterie accompanied by a multitude of cocktails. In the background the sounds of Straight Ahead Jazz lead by Guitarist Jeremiah Crowley filled the air.

During cocktails we spoke with Ed Gilligan, Vice ... Read More

The Youth America Grand Prix saluted legendary prima ballerina Natalia Makarova at Lincoln Center. In addition to films that highlighted Makarova's extraordinary career, some of her most memorable roles were performed by today's leading dancers. Like fellow ballet aficionados, I was delighted to meet her during a festive, champagne-fueled dinner.

---

Peripatetic Artist Colette:
A lively crowd of art aficionados filled the Gershwin Hotel to preview "A Pirate in Venice", a beautifully-photographed film of Colette's recent journey/exhibits to Venice. Swathed in her signature flowing white clothes and fantastic hats, director Fredericke Schaefer showed the artist at her very best.

---

Ivy Brown Gallery Must-See Show:
In an unfortunate bit of coincidence, the innovative Ivy Brown GAllery exhibited Sunny Bak's three-decade photo tribute to the Beastie Boys a ... Read More