Portrait | Angel Circle Evening Redrawn at the MMFA
On Tuesday, November 16, members of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Foundation’s ANGEL CIRCLE and their guests were in an open secret — the unusual hybrid of an exclusive cocktail party, portrait session and drawing workshop, followed by a playful tour of the new MMFA exhibition The World of Yousuf Karsh: A Private Essence.
Inspired by the works and genius of Karsh, one of the greatest portrait photographers of the 20th century, attendees had the opportunity to experience a creative journey in which they were both subject, creator and admirer.
In the MMFA’s Glass Court serving as a studio, talented mediators had prepared a captivating workshop…
…in which participants were initiated to portrait drawing 101, while mingling with other members of the Angel Circle who have a passion for art.
The World of Yousuf Karsh exhibition was accessible thereafter in order for them to admire the famous portraits captured by the deep sensitivity of the great master.
Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the artist’s wife, Estrellita Karsh, the MMFA became the grateful recipient of 111 pristinely preserved photographs.
The exhibition — from September 22, 2021 to January 30, 2022 — features renowned portraits of political figures, influential figures of theatre, film, music, the visual arts and literature, as well as outstanding scientists and spiritual leaders of the 20th century.
A Private Essence also displays Karsh’s immortalized images of the cowboys, farmers, steelworkers and icons of culture and artistic achievement who embody the integrity of the Canadian spirit.
What is the Angel Circle?
Founded in 2016 by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Foundation, the philanthropic goal of the Angel Circle is to support the presentation of major exhibitions and make the Museum more accessible for underprivileged families. Through joining the Circle, a member enjoys building strong relationships with outgoing individuals who want to stay abreast of new trends in art, design and music.
The majority of Circle members are entrepreneurs and experienced professionals who share the same interests, including a great passion for culture.
Activities for members are intended to provide them with experiences that no other visitor can benefit from, including the unique experience of visiting the art restoration laboratories and exclusive encounters with artists, curators, collectors and philanthropists.
Here is what you need to know about the MMFA’s Angel Circle
Benefits:
- An invitation for yourself and a guest to exclusive Angel Circle evenings
- An invitation for yourself and a guest to the Premieres of Major Exhibition
- An invitation for yourself and a guest to Discovery Exhibition openings
- Free audioguides for all guests of Angel Circle members and their families
- Free, unlimited and priority access to all exhibitions and collections for yourself and two guests
Website: mbam.qc.ca/en/philanthropic-circles/angel-circle
Featured image credit: Anita Ekberg, 1956. © Estate of Yousuf Karsh
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