The Globe’s On The Scene column shines a light on philanthropic events across Canada.
LOOK25 Gala in support of Contemporary Calgary, May 31, Calgary
1/9
The LOOK25 Gala celebration held on the eve of May 31 in Calgary and presented by MAWER took on the theme of “Noir Nouveau,” a nod to the work of Calgary-based textile artist Simone Elizabeth Saunders, who was tasked with leading the vision for not just this year’s VIP dinner (presented by long-time sponsor Holt Renfrew) but the visual language for the evening at large. A fog-filled moody garden with loads of candles and a glossy lacquer piano at the room’s centre greeted dinner guests and was the backdrop for performances by Justine Tyrell and Timothonius and remarks by David Leinster, CEO of Contemporary Calgary, the organization for and by which the gala is thrown. LOOK, now in its 14th year, has become the organization’s most important fundraiser, providing about a third of the gallery’s operating funding. This year, north of $1.2-million was raised, money which will support programming for art lovers of every age as well as future exhibitions (a group show, Presence, curated by Kanika Anand opens June 26). Back this year, following dinner, was the live auction, presented by Heather Edwards. Works by artists including the aforementioned Saunders, June Clark (who served as a gala honorary chair alongside Dr. John Lacey and D’Arcy Levesque), Evan Penny and even a work by Jean-Paul Riopelle circa 1960 made up the 22 lots (there were fiftysomething works in the silent auction too), all of which sold, helping to raise more than half of that grand total. Ryan Green, owner of Masters Gallery, sponsored the after party, which saw a bevy of young art enthusiasts, 600 or so, flood the gallery for a night of dancing (that in part to dancehall legend Sister Nancy, who served a set), drinks, art and fun.
The Butterfly Ball in Support of Boost CYAC, May 22, Toronto
1/5
The Butterfly Ball in support of Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre was back for its 26th edition, and while in a new location (the Ritz-Carlton downtown), the gala’s efforts remained the same: raise as much money as possible to support children who have experienced abuse. Boost CYAC works with hundred of children and their families annually through various programs which provide support for children who must testify against their abuser in criminal court. Trauma therapy and advocacy as well as medical examinations, court preparation and accompaniment are all undertaken at Boost’s centre. The gala raised an impressive $1.27-million to support this work. Returning this year to steer the gala as co-chairs were Claire MacNamara and Trish Del Sorbo (their respective husbands Tyler and Nick were also there). Chair of the board and entrepreneur Regan P. Watts gave out the Aune Award this year to Mark and Vanessa Mulroney in recognition of their long-standing commitment to Boost. Key organization supporters Jonathan and Georgia Aune of Montreal, for whom the award is named (they were recognized last year), were in attendance too. Also there was Christie’s international consultant Brett Sherlock, who handled the auction, selling off posh prizes that helped contribute greatly to the grand total.