Les Printemps du MAC 2024 | Iconic Gala @ Arsenal Contemporary Art Montreal
On the Friday evening of May 17, the Arsenal Contemporary Art Montreal complex in Griffintown was abuzz with excitement as more than 1200 guests gathered for the 16th edition of Les Printemps du MAC. This annual gala, benefiting the Fondation du Musée d’art contemporain de Montréal, was a resounding success, raising over $520,000. This year’s theme, “ICONS,” perfectly captured the spirit of the night, highlighting the intersection of art, culture, and philanthropy.
Stars on the Red Carpet
A dozen public figures graced the red carpet, donning custom pieces by renowned or up-and-coming local designers like Markantoine Lynch-Boisvert, Geni Hill, and Catherine Prefontaine. This year’s gala featured a cool twist, with celebrities like Catherine Brunet, Julie-Anne Ho, and Lou-Pascal Tremblay showcasing unique creations inspired by works of art in the MACrépertoire.
Sponsored by BonLook, the red carpet, aptly named “MAC Gala des Printemps,” drew inspiration from the prestigious MET Gala, adding a touch of glamour and excitement, as personified by the first MAC Gala hostess Lolitta Dandoy wearing an exploding pink Widi’z Élégance dress, inspired by a painting of Pierre Gauvreau: Don Quichotte.
Experiences and Indulgences
The event was not just about art and fashion; it was a night of unique experiences. Yves Saint Laurent Beauté provided a mirrored makeup touch-up station.
Porsche Lauzon’s red-themed photobooth offered attendees the perfect opportunity to capture memories.
The BonLook pop-up counter created quite a sensation when guests learned it was giving away star-worthy eyewear for free!
VIP guests enjoyed exclusive perks: their own section with gourmet bites served on silver platters and an open bar with sparkling wine.
An Auction of Dreams
The evening’s auction, presented by EY and curated by Erika Del Vecchio, featured 28 remarkable works by Canadian artists. The auction raised over $120,000, with a third of the proceeds going directly to the contributing artists. This not only highlighted the MAC’s commitment to supporting the art community but also underscored the importance of contemporary art in society.
A Night of Moments
The night was a feast for the senses, culminating with a moving performance by Cœur de Pirate. Her magical rendition of “A Lot of Sorrow,” originally performed by The National in collaboration with Icelandic artist Ragnar Kjartansson, was a highlight of the event.
Naomi, a multi-disciplinary artist, followed with her Caribbean-inspired set, seamlessly blending pop, RnB, and house influences, compelling everyone to the dance floor. The musical ambiance was further elevated by local DJs L’Isle, Nana Zen, Kiari, Marica, and Prince Charli, ensuring the energy never waned.
A Grand Success
Co-chaired by Allison Forbes of Raisonnable and Charles LeMay of Sphere Media, this year’s Les Printemps du MAC surpassed all expectations. Their leadership, along with the dedication of all the members of the Organizing Committee, as well as numerous volunteers and generous contributions from partners, was pivotal in achieving such an outstanding result. Anne Lebel, Executive Director of La Fondation du MAC, emphasized this sentiment, thanking all for their hard work and generosity.
Here is what you need to know about Les Printemps du MAC
Created in 2006, Les Printemps du MAC takes shape each year under the management of the Les Printemps du MAC Organizing Committee, a group of young philanthropists with a passion for contemporary art who shoulder the work of organizing a unique event with real added value for the guests, and of raising the MAC’s profile for the benefit of the Fondation du Musée d’art contemporain.
Born out of a desire to make younger generations more aware of contemporary art and of the MAC’s essential role in conserving and exhibiting this legacy at the provincial, national and international levels, this event makes a direct contribution to the MAC’s development since all proceeds from the gala flow to the Fondation du MAC.
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