Women in the Arts’ Grande Fete Goes Monte Carlo Cool

Short of booking a transatlantic flight to the small, Mediterranean principality, nothing– not even a trip to the famed Vegas casino– could come closer to a real night in Monte Carlo than the National Museum of Women in the ArtsGrande Fete gala last Friday. That’s because the venue’s 25th anniversary party was sponsored by none other than Monaco’s very own royal family, with such esteemed guests as Ambassador of Monaco Gilles Noghès and his wife Ellen in attendance.
Benefiting the Museum’s Legacy of Women in the Arts Endowment, the black tie event (which followed a sit-down dinner presentation) featured a French-inspired dessert buffet, musical performance by The Blue Tips Rhythm Review and table after table of craps, poker and other games. A silent auction– which included such unique items as one of Lance Armstrong’s bicycle and a sit-down dinner at the home of Mexico’s Ambassador– showcased dozens of pieces by women artists.
“There are many musuems around the world that have a couple pieces [by women artists,” said Coventry Berg, Co-Chair of the Museum’s Aesthetes Host Committee, “But this museum truly highlights all of them.”
“[This event] brings an international perspective being sponsored by the royal family of Monaco,” said Saundra Lambertsen, an art consultant who attended. “It automatically opens up doors and perspective [for women].”