Young Fellows Ball is the highly anticipated gathering of the most stylish socialites of Manhattan’s society. Latest edition was extra sparkly. Inspired by the current special exhibition at Frick Madison, The Gregory Gift theme of this year’s ball was “Bejeweled,” and it sure inspired already fashionable crowd.
In partnership with Irene Neuwirth, guests enjoyed a night of art paired with themed cocktails, garnished with fresh edible flowers and of course some bubbly. We were able to explore galleries, including the exciting twenty-eight remarkable works of fine and decorative art recently bequeathed to the museum by collector and publisher Alexis Gregory. These eclectic objects, many whimsical in nature, shimmer with gilded surfaces and gemstone accents.
Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Director Ian Wardropper, Honorary Chairman Irene Neuwirth, and John Grisham. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
At Young Fellows Ball paintings came alive with unique “Step into a Fragonard” photo experience along with a once-in-a-lifetime temporary presentation featuring collection highlights by celebrated artists such as Bellini, Degas, Fragonard, Gainsborough, Ingres, Rembrandt, Titian, Van Dyck, and Veronese.
Proceeds from the Young Fellows Ball provide essential support for the Frick’s many activities, including the programs of the Frick Art Reference Library and the Education Department, which serves students from New York City public schools in all five boroughs as well as digital audiences around the country and the world.
Madeleine Haddon, Arielle Patrick, and Lane Florsheim. Photo: George Koelle
Bach Mai. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Edythe Hughes and Michael Espiritu. Photo: George Koelle
Katie Sands. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com Young Fellows Ball
Music by Angel + Dren. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
David Alexander Jenkins and Allison Ecung. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Maggie Morse, Gabrielle Bird-Vogel, Lily Rivkin, and Jack Friend. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Erica Pishdadian, Casey Kohlberg, and Adrien Lesser. Photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
THE FRICK COLLECTION
Internationally recognized as a premier museum and research center, The Frick Collection is known for its distinguished Old Master paintings and outstanding examples of European sculpture and decorative arts. The collection originated with Henry Clay Frick (1849–1919), who bequeathed his Fifth Avenue home along with paintings, sculpture, furniture, and decorative arts to the public for their enjoyment. The institution’s holdings—which encompass masterworks from the Renaissance through the early twentieth century—have grown over the decades, more than doubling in size since the opening of the museum in 1935. A critical component of the institution is the Frick Art Reference Library, founded in 1920 by Helen Clay Frick, daughter of the museum’s founder. Recognized as one of the world’s top art history research centers, it has served students, scholars, and members of the public free of charge for generations. The Frick Collection is currently located at its temporary home, Frick Madison, while its historic buildings undergo renovation and enhancement.
THE YOUNG FELLOWS
For more than twenty years, the Young Fellows have helped to ensure that The Frick Collection remains a singular museum experience. The contributions of the Young Fellows support the conservation of the permanent collection, its presentation at Frick Madison, the organization of new special exhibitions and installations, and the museum and library’s world-class public programming. Throughout the year, the young art enthusiasts who make up the Young Fellows enjoy social and educational events and behind-the-scenes access to the Frick.
Irene Neuwirth is an independent fine jewelry company based in Los Angeles. Founded in 2003 by the eponymous designer, the company has emerged as a leading jewelry brand, recognized by Irene’s whimsical yet ultra-fine design sensibility. The jewelry has generated tremendous editorial attention and is worn by some of the most beautiful women in the world, including Ruth Negga, Brie Larson, Julianne Moore, Charlize Theron, Zoe Saldana, Sarah Paulson, and Reese Witherspoon. In 2014, Irene opened her flagship store on Melrose Place in West Hollywood. The jewel box space was designed by Pam Shamshiri and marked the first time Irene’s vision was realized in a full brand experience. In December 2022, Irene opened a second flagship on Madison Avenue, a fantastical ode to magical surrealism filled with the one-of-a-kind creations for which she is so highly regarded. Today, the collection can be found at leading boutiques across the globe, as well as at Capitol + Irene Neuwirth at the Brentwood Country Mart.