Gala Preview Kicks Off The Art Show 2016
By Chelsea Jupin
Click here to see more photos from this event »
It may have been Super Tuesday in other states, but New York had its own Superb Tuesday with the elegant 28th annual Art Show Gala Preview last night at the Park Avenue Armory. New York City’s leading philanthropists, art enthusiasts, and business, cultural and social leaders filled the Park Avenue Armory for the not-to-be-missed event. The Art Show, one of the foremost art fairs in the nation, benefits Henry Street’s vital programs and is organized by the Art Dealers Association of America.
Spotted among the guests were actor, writer and noted art enthusiast Steve Martin; art critic Jerry Saltz; and New York Timesphotographer Bill Cunningham. Attendees enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres while exploring the curated art exhibitions by 72 of the nation’s leading art dealers.
The Gala Preview is among New York City’s most eagerly anticipated special events on New York’s social and cultural calendars and launches Armory Arts Week across the city. Agnes Gund was honorary chair of the event. Co-chairs were Barbara von Bismarck and Thierry W. Despont, Mitzi and Warren Eisenberg, Janine and J. Tomilson Hill, Alexandra Lebenthal, Louise and Leonard Riggio, Pilar Crespi Robert and Stephen Robert, Byron and Anita Volz Wien.
“The spirit, generosity and enthusiasm of the spectacular 28th Gala Art Show Preview was palpable. The resounding success reflects the dedication of the Art Show Committee, our Board of Directors, our funders, our staff, the Art Dealers Association of America and, of course, all the patrons who attended,” said David Garza, Executive Director of Henry Street Settlement. “The Art Show is our largest fundraiser, and these critical funds help us open doors of opportunity for those in need.”
Established in 1989, the show immediately garnered considerable acclaim among collectors and critics and has continued to set the standards of excellence with its museum-quality exhibitions of Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary works. Today, it is the nation’s longest-running fine art fair.
The Art Show open to the public from March 2 to 6, from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, from noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, and from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $25. Tickets are available electronically here or at the door of the Armory, located on Park Avenue at 67th Street.
The Silent Auction of 2016 Art Show is live on Paddle8 through March 6 and features works by eight celebrated contemporary artists. The benefit auction is also on view at The Art Show.
All Gala proceeds, auction proceeds and daily admissions support Henry Street’s social service, arts and health care programs that serve 60,000 people each year.
