LongHouse Reserve’s Annual Summer Benefit Celebrates Artistic Brilliance

LongHouse Reserve's highly anticipated Summer Benefit was a resounding success, honoring the creative genius of artist Mary Heilmann and the literary brilliance of A. M. Homes. This gala event, hosted by esteemed chairs Dianne Benson, Cindy Sherman, and Robert Wilson, along with Art Chairs Pamela Willoughby and George Negroponte, welcomed a prestigious guest list including luminaries such as Alice Aycock, Candace Bushnell, Rosanne Cash, and more.

The enchanting MidSummer Dream-themed evening dazzled attendees from the moment they entered through sand dunes into a whimsical wonderland. Captivating performances, including stilt walkers, musicians, dancers, and trapeze aerialists, added a touch of magic to the already mesmerizing ambiance of LongHouse Reserve.

The 16-acre grounds transformed into an art lover's paradise, boasting captivating works by renowned artists Wyatt Kahn, Fitzhugh Karol, Daniel Arsham, Ai Weiwei, Buckminster Fuller, Sol LeWitt, and Yoko Ono. The event raised an impressive $650,000 to support the institution's mission.
During the exquisite dinner, a moving video of the late LongHouse Founder Jack Lenor Larsen set the tone for the evening, inspiring guests with his vision for embracing change and exploring new possibilities. Director Carrie Rebora Barratt paid tribute to Jack's legacy and his passion for embracing the beauty of dreams and artistic exploration.

President Nina Gillman emphasized LongHouse's commitment to carrying on Jack's vision, fostering a dynamic community where art thrives in all its forms. She praised Dianne Benson's leadership and bestowed her with the title of President Emeritus, acknowledging her invaluable contributions.
A.M. Homes, the esteemed literary honoree, delivered an insightful speech, revealing a heartwarming connection to LongHouse through her childhood, where Jack Lenor Larsen's exquisite fabric adorned her home, shaping her earliest perceptions of art.

Artist Mary Heilmann, the beacon of creative brilliance, was introduced by Almond Zigmund, who eloquently described how her paintings allowed viewers to luxuriate in the present moment, much like catching a perfect wave of tranquil sublimity.

The event's Junior Committee, led by Emma Wrazej, ensured the festivities continued with an afterparty filled with cocktails, dessert, and dancing, creating unforgettable memories that lasted well into the night.

The art auction, a centerpiece of the evening, featured masterpieces by esteemed artists such as Laurie Anderson, Ross Bleckner, Cindy Sherman, Kiki Smith, and more, with proceeds supporting LongHouse's commitment to education.

As the summer unfolds, LongHouse Reserve promises to continue delighting art enthusiasts with captivating events, including conversations and book signings with celebrated artist Michele Oka Doner and actress Alexandra Auder. The talented pianist and composer Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner will enchant audiences under the stars to celebrate Jack Larsen's birthday, thanks to the generous support of Barbara Tober.
LongHouse Reserve's Summer Benefit was a true celebration of creativity, inspiration, and the boundless possibilities of art, leaving attendees with cherished memories and an enduring appreciation for the power of artistic expression.