SIMONE LEVINSON

Founding Cochair, Southampton Arts Center

Now in its fifth season, the Southampton Arts Center hosts a broad range of exhibitions, performances, workshops, classes, and events in the landmarked Grosvenor Atterbury building that previously housed the Parrish Art Museum. WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL: “First and foremost, the location,” says Levinson. “It’s a 15,000-square-foot facility on a two-acre parcel in the heart of a 400-year-old village that looks like a movie set.” ON THE CALENDAR: Some programming comes via prestigious institutions like the International Center of Photography and Jazz at Lincoln Center. “Our focus has always been on serving the entire community,” Levinson explains. “I’m always thinking about how to engage it.” WHAT DRIVES HER: “I’m humbled by the opportunity to create the framework for other people to share their passions. I get so much joy out of seeing this beautiful building filled with life.” THE SUMMER GALA: The annual Summerfest Culinary Arts Festival, coming up on August 31, gathers 24 celebrated area chefs for a delicious fundraiser on the center’s grounds. “People can stop by for an hour and have cocktails or make a whole evening of it,” says Levinson, who is also this year’s honoree. OFF-DUTY PLEASURES: Levinson loves spending time at the beach, especially Cooper’s, and also in Sag Harbor, where she and her husband keep a boat. Frequent destinations include Shelter Island, where she was married. “It’s great to explore other parts of the Hamptons,” she says. “It’s really a place to decompress.” 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton, 631-2830967; southamptonartscenter.org