Studio in a School commemorated its 40th anniversary of providing visual arts education to New York City’s public school children with a two-day celebration. On May 3rd, more than 400 supporters from the art, business and education communities gathered beneath an outdoor tent on the Seagram Building Plaza to celebrate this milestone. Founder and Board Chair, Agnes Gund, was joined by fellow Gala Honorary Chairs and Board Vice Chairs Dorothy Lichtenstein and Ken Cooper. Gala Co-Chairs Sarah Arison, Samantha Boardman Rosen, Colby Mugrabi, John Studzinski and Amanda Taylor Brokaw were present, along with Artist Committee Co-Chairs Jeff Koons, Clifford Ross and Fred Wilson. Tony-winning playwright and performer, Sarah Jones, served as the evening’s Master of Ceremonies.
40th Anniversary Gala – Photography by Mindy Best
Studio President and CEO Thomas Cahill introduced New York City Schools Chancellor Carmen Farina, whose remarks opened the program. Ms. Gund presented honoree Raymond J. McGuire of Citi with artwork from a third grade student at PS 139 in Brooklyn, praising his outstanding leadership in New York City’s arts and culture community. New York City Schools Program Executive Director Chris Wisniewski celebrated Studio Artist Instructors Noel Copeland, Valerie Hammond, Robin Holder, Damali Miller, Gail Molnar, Jan Moseman and Cathy Ramey for more than 20 years of service. Ms. Lichtenstein honored Studio Artist Partners John Baldessari, Jennifer Bartlett, Jeff Koons, David LaChapelle, Brice Marden, Julie Mehretu, Vik Muniz, Clifford Ross, Joel Shapiro and Kiki Smith for their generous donations of their art to benefit Studio in a School.
40th Anniversary Gala – Photography by Mary Hilliard
The following day, over 300 New York City public school students from Studio’s programs visited the tent with their teachers and Studio Artist Instructors to celebrate Art Making Day. All students had the opportunity to enjoy the artwork on view, created by pre-k through high school students, as well as to respond to the work and the historical architectural surroundings by making their own unique pieces.
Art Making Day – Photography by Mindy Best
40th Anniversary Gala Sponsors:
