David’s Disco fundraiser supports Casey House, Artist Project celebrates its opening night | Canada Voices

David’s Disco in support of Casey House, March 28, Toronto

The third edition of David’s Disco took place at The Concert Hall in Toronto on the evening of March 28. The fundraiser, named for journalist and activist David Shannon, supports Casey House, a specialized hospital and care centre for those living with and at risk of HIV. The high-energy dance party was attended by some 600 guests and featured drag performances (headlined by drag star Kylie Sonique Love) and a slate of disco hits sung by Simone Denny. Design firm Yabu Pushelberg returned as a lead sponsor alongside RBC, while Elton John and David Furnish reprised their roles as honorary chairs and philanthropist Paul Austin and journalist Jeanne Beker joined as this year’s co-chairs. Out to celebrate were interior designer Tommy Smythe; fashion designer David Dixon; Casey House CEO Joanne Simons; board chair Victor Ng; and board member Jake Mossop; plus fashion plate Suzanne Rogers; and DJ Dancing Phil, who kept guests in the disco spirit well into the night.

Artist Project Opening Night Party, March 26, Toronto

Launched in 2008, Toronto’s annual Artist Project showcases the work of more than 250 independent artists from across Canada. The fair sees creatives gather for a weekend-long event focused on personal connection: visitors are offered the chance to meet (and purchase pieces directly from) participating artists and learn about their work in a relaxed setting. At the opening night party on March 26, emerging and more established contemporary artists rubbed shoulders with collectors of all stripes. The evening also featured the unveiling of a number of site-specific installations: life-sized dandelions on concrete bases by Chelsea Brant sprouted in one booth, while Indo-Canadian artist Gabriel George’s mixed media work, Echoes of the Divine, took home the fair’s First in Show prize. This year’s jury consisted of gallerist Taiga Korper Bentley and artists Trevor Twells and Winnie Truong. Emily-Jean Alexander, the newly appointed director of both Artist Project and Art Toronto (held in the fall) was in attendance. Guests also included EY Canada partner and art enthusiast Daniel Abichandani; the fair’s previous director Mia Nielsen; and installation artist Briony Douglas.