Museum Ball 2023 | MMFA Gala in Retro Glamour Raised Over $2M
The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Ball, a gala synonymous with grandeur and generosity, celebrated its 63rd edition on November 18, setting a new benchmark in museum philanthropy. Attended by 1000 guests, the MMFA Ball surpassed expectations, raising a record-breaking amount of over $2 million.
This year’s theme paid homage to Marisol Escobar, the iconic Venezuelan-American sculptor of the 1960s and 70s, transforming the event into a journey through time and imagination. Co-chaired by Charles Emond and France Margaret Bélanger, the evening began with an exclusive preview of the Marisol: A Retrospective exhibition.
Guests were then treated to a culinary delight, a gourmet meal showcasing Quebec’s finest products. The menu, a creation of Gabriel Molleur-Langevin from the Champlain Restaurant of Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, was expertly executed by Armando Arruda and his team at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth.
The transformation of the Museum’s gallery space into a 1960s and 70s wonderland was the handiwork of Valentine Hinfray and Alexandra Briand-Soucy.
Their artistic vision was complemented by the architectural expertise of NÓS, as well as the contributions from artists like Cyndie Belhumeur, Nicolas Grenier, and the artful vandal MissMe.
As Jo-Anne Duchesne, MMFA Foundation Director General, was happy to tell us; the MMFA Ball is not just an evening of elegance and entertainment; it’s a lifeline for the museum. As a non-profit, the MMFA relies heavily on self-financing, with over 50% of its budget coming from such events. The success of this gala is a testament to Montreal’s thriving art scene and the community’s unwavering support.
The night was a dazzling display of Montreal’s commitment to the arts. It was an evening where culture, cuisine, and philanthropy met, creating an unforgettable experience. The event’s achievement is a reminder of the power of community and the vital role of art in society. You can see great shots of the Museum Ball in our mysterious photo album!
Here is what you need to know about the MMFA Ball
Founded in 1860, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) is the oldest art museum in Canada and a leading museum in North America. Its collection showcases Quebec and Canadian heritage and international art from a critical and intercultural perspective, and comprises more then 45,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic art works, photographs, multimedia installations and decorative art objects dating from antiquity to the present.
The annual Museum Ball is a fundraising event that is vital to maintaining the operations and activities of the Museum which, since it is a non-profit organization, must rely on self-financing to fund nearly 60% of its operating budget. Over $2 million in net proceeds were raised this year. These funds will enable the enhancement of the collection, the presentation of major exhibitions, the development of numerous educational and wellness programs, and the realization of other initiatives.
For those eager to be part of this grand tradition, tickets for the next MMFA Ball are already available. Contact baldumusee@mbamtl.org to reserve your spot.
Featured image credit: Mary-Dailey Desmarais and MissMe | Photo Frédéric Faddoul
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