The robust and energetic art scene in New York City has long been one of the city’s main draws. Even though the city offers unparalleled access to work from the art world’s leading painters, sculptors, designers, a thriving art community is not a given. Just like clean waterways and air, a healthy art scene is the product of support from people who want to ensure it exists and flourishes for the next generation. Luckily, supporting the arts doesn’t have to be a chore, thanks to events like the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) Ball on November 4th: a night of cocktails, fine food, music, awards, and, of course, artwork. All proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit MAD, a close neighbor of the ARO apartments for rent in Hell’s Kitchen.
While several big names are sure to be in attendance, the official guests of honor will be the Haas Brothers. Known for their vibrant, otherworldly creatures and furry furniture, the native (twin) sons of Los Angeles have been commissioned to make pieces for celebrities like Lady Gaga and Tobey Maguire. The choice is sure to set a playful, unstuffy tone for the night; according to Culture Trip, the brothers have a sense of humor and their work is bursting with experimental, Californian fun, so don’t miss the chance to see the pair in person.
A night of cocktails, art, and fine dining would not be complete without a one-of-a-kind soundtrack, and for that, MAD is bringing in DJ Mia Moretti. The sought-after DJ brings an artist’s touch to tying together her sets, recently telling Spotify’s For the Record that the transitions between songs are “the difference between someone playing a playlist versus listening to a real DJ,” adding that transitions reveal “the intention behind the change, the way you tell the story.” Indeed, Moretti’s sets are stitched together and layered in a way that makes hearing a familiar song feel like an entirely new experience; a touch that will surely elevate the atmosphere of the night.
Another highlight of the evening will be the highly anticipated announcement of the winner of the Burke Prize. The prize, named after two long-time supporters of MAD, “is an unrestricted $50,000 award made to a professional artist age 45 or under working in glass, fiber, clay, metal, or wood.” This prize is specifically intended to benefit and honor a member of the next generation of artists, an attempt to “carry craft into the future.” Last year’s recipient was Cannupa Hanska Luger, an artist whose powerful work addresses issues like the epidemic of missing indigenous women in America.
While all proceeds from the night will go to further the educational and public programming of MAD, the fundraiser itself will be held at Cipriani 42nd Street. The venue feels like it came straight out of the Italian Renaissance, with vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and sweeping arches.
The MAD Ball is a popular event that supports the community and the arts right in ARO’s neighborhood, so we recommend that you reserve your tickets for this celebratory fundraiser as soon as possible.