National Post (Latest Edition)
EVENT
Art Bash Baroque Ball
ORGANIZERS
Co-chairs Sonja Berman and Dean Bender
VENUE
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
DESCRIPTION
The AGO transformed into a magical baroque palace, inspired by European art, architecture, music and fashion from the early 17th until the mid-18th centuries. The night began with a grandiose cocktail reception accompanied by a live violinist and luxuriant fashion displays by local designers Stephan Caras, Alan Anderson and Mani Jassal. Upstairs, chandeliers, a larger- than- life sculpture by Toronto artist Briony Douglas and opulent centrepieces featuring oversized bouquets, overflowing fruit trays and moody candles set the stage for dinner. An after- party followed with flowing cocktails and models that both shocked and delighted revellers.
“Sonja Berman and Dean Bender created a visually stunning event in an homage to Peter Paul Rubens that took everyone’s breath away. The AGO’S mission to make extraordinary art accessible to everyone was front and centre.” —Kate Halpenny, chief development officer, AGO