The Whitney Museum is the embodiment of contemporary American art, so naturally a masterpiece of an annual ball was in order. With a guest list that runs the gamut from the worlds of art and fashion to the who’s who of business and high society, a no-holds-barred approach was taken for the extravaganza.

This particular Whitney Gala was a incredible multi-faceted event. The enchanted evening kicked off with cocktails in the sculpture gardens, which were transformed with the help of lavish tents. Here guests met and mingled around rectangular tables decorated with vibrant poppies in shot glasses and faux-fur-trimmed vases. And of course there were twinkling votive candles for as far as the eye could see. After cocktails, guests moved inside for the magnificent main event. This is when the under-30 set—the young friends of the Whitney Museum—took over the spectacular space for a party of their own.

A bold color scheme was necessary to make an unforgettable statement. The chosen hue was a festive orange with copper serving as an opulent accent. From the floor to the ceiling and all points in between, the room was awash in color. Even the floors and walls were painted orange, with plush coordinating carpet thrown in for good measure. Spectacular salt sculptures created especially for the occasion adorned the walls as well, with shades of copper, gold, silver and cognac for contrast. One wall featured deeper orange spotlights that lent a fiery feel.

Instead of a traditional stage, a platform was constructed in the middle of the room to draw the eyes inward. A lush green arbor was created for the ceiling to anchor the focal point. And to ensure that all attendees had a direct unobstructed view, tables on the outskirts of the room were elevated to varying heights.



The tables themselves were works of art as well. Round tables mixed with triangular tabletops provided an unexpected twist, and they were lit from beneath to create the illusion that they were floating. The edges of each tabletop were also emblazoned with messages to guests—such as “Art + Fashion + Fabulous People = Whitney Gala 2000”—reinforcing the reason for the evening’s celebration. The fabulous centerpieces were fashioned in the same shapes as the tables. Round tables featured were adorned with concentric circles of roses and twigs, while outlying square and rectangular tables were accented with wheatgrass and poppies for a freeform, organic feel. Instead of traditional tablecloths, the round tables were mirrored and the other tables were painted, so clear serving pieces were used to allow the unique surfaces to shine through. And for a final offbeat touch, silverware was placed in a nontraditional manner—with all flatware on one side of the charger.

Beautiful surroundings, fabulous food and a glittering guest list always make for an amazing evening. The glamorous gala was a smashing success, and attendees left wondering what was in store for next year.