Paloma Picasso Honored At 2011 Gala Of The National Museum Of Women In The Arts!

NORTHWEST -- With the stately Grand Hall and Mezzanine of the National Museum of Women in the Arts serving as a magnificent backdrop, designer Paloma Picasso was recognized as the guest of honor at the institution’s 24th anniversary spring gala on Friday night.

A decidedly black tie affair, supporters were invited to begin the evening with a one-of-a-kind presentation of her work in the museum’s Teresa Lozano Long Gallery, while sipping on cocktails and sampling from a variety of passed hors d’oeuvres.

2011 Spring Gala Chair Laurie Monahan (left) and philanthropist Cindy Jones (right).
The surrounding rooms on the venue’s third floor had also been temporarily arranged to showcase a variety of silent auction items, with the proceeds from each sale benefiting the museum’s programs directly. Everything from original works of art to mink jackets to gourmet gift baskets were up for grabs, with many items sold within the first few minutes of the opening reception!

Accompanied by her husband, Dr. Eric Thevenet, and introduced by celebrated American author Fran Lebowitz, Paloma was honored during dinner for carrying on her family’s tradition in her own style, with a particular emphasis on her Marrakesh-inspired jewelry collection for luxury house Tiffany & Co. (also the gala’s Platinum Sponsor).

Author and style icon Fran Lebowitz (pictured right) introduced Paloma during the night’s award presentation.
Immediately following the award presentation, guests proceeded to dance the night away to the big band tunes of the Michael Carney Orchestra, content in the knowledge that they were surrounded by good company, lively conversation, and a great cause.

Attendees included many well-known D.C. residents, such as WUSA9 anchor Andrea Roane.
Since it was first incorporated in 1981, the National Museum of Women in the Arts has dedicated itself to the exhibition, preservation, and acquisition of works by women artists – an oftentimes underrepresented group in traditional museum collections.

Guests left with Tiffany & Co.’s signature blue bags as thank you gifts.
As Paloma’s father, famed artist Pablo Picasso, once said, “Give me a museum and I’ll fill it.” Apparently, like father, like daughter!

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To learn more about the National Museum of Women in the Arts, please visit the museum's website.