The Frick Collection welcomed its Fellows, Young Fellows, and distinguished guests for its highly anticipated annual Spring Garden Party, a sophisticated celebration of art, fashion, and music held over two consecutive evenings on June 9 and June 10, 2026.
Guest, Luis Hill, and Victoria Spagnola; photo: Matt Borkowski/BFA.com
Hosted at the museum’s historic Fifth Avenue mansion, the exclusive event offered attendees rare access to the Frick’s breathtaking private garden, a space typically closed to the public. Guests arrived dressed in elegant pastel hues and floral-inspired ensembles, perfectly complementing the beauty of the blooming garden and the grandeur of the museum’s recently restored galleries.
Music provided by performers from The Juilliard School; photo: Matt Borkowski/BFA.com
The enchanting evenings were accompanied by live jazz performances from talented musicians of The Juilliard School , creating a refined atmosphere throughout the garden. Guests enjoyed an array of seasonally inspired hors d’oeuvres, decadent desserts, and handcrafted cocktails. Specialty beverage stations featured Maestro Dobel Tequila margaritas and Ruinart Champagne, adding an extra touch of luxury to the festivities.
Anne L. Poulet Curatorial Fellow Yifu Liu gallery talk on Ruffles & Ribbons: Fashion Plates from the Time of Marie Antoinette photo: George Koelle
A highlight of The Frick Collection Spring Party was exclusive after-hours access to renowned permanent galleries. Attendees explored masterpieces by celebrated artists including Bellini, Fragonard, Rembrandt, and Turner, while also ascending the museum’s iconic Grand Staircase to visit the second-floor galleries, which reopened following the completion of the institution’s extensive renovation project last year.
Guests were also treated to the special exhibition Ruffles & Ribbons: Fashion Plates from the Time of Marie Antoinette. The captivating presentation showcases twenty-four hand-colored engravings depicting the extravagant fashions and evolving style trends of late eighteenth-century France, offering a fascinating glimpse into the world of Marie Antoinette and the French aristocracy.
Fifth Avenue Garden with a special blue-and-orange lighting display in honor of the New York Knicks; photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Throughout the evening, engaging gallery talks provided additional insight into both the permanent collection and the featured fashion exhibition. As a memorable surprise on June 10, The Frick illuminated its Fifth Avenue façade in blue and orange to support the New York Knicks ahead of their Game 4 Finals victory that same evening.
The Spring Garden Party was hosted by Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Director Axel Rüger alongside a distinguished committee of supporters and patrons. Delicious catering was provided by Olivier Cheng Catering & Events, while floral and event décor were beautifully designed by Bowman Dahl.
As one of New York City’s most anticipated cultural gatherings, The Frick Collection’s Spring Garden Party once again showcased the institution’s unique ability to blend art, history, fashion, and philanthropy in an unforgettable setting.
Allie Provost and Kristi Hemric; photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Young Fellows Steering Committee member Anita Saggurti, Vinita Saggurti, and guests; photo:
Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Associate Director of Development Angie Calderwood and Associate Director of Marketing and
Visitor Services Alexis Light; photo: Matt Borkowski/BFA.com
Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk; photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Max Gundlach, Daphne Garrett, Marina Kellen French, Stephanie Garrett, and Henry Gundlach;
photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Host Committee members Mark and Teresa Medearis; photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Associate Curator Giulio Dalvit, Janie Woo Scher, and Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Director Axel Rüger; photo: Matteo Prandoni/BFA.com
Tijana Ibrahimovic; photo: Matt Borkowski/BFA.com
