Colorful projections seem to be the latest visual trick employed by cultural institutions for key events. Last Wednesday, an illuminated video frieze that washed the walls of Cipriani Wall Street was the decor highlight of the New Museum's gala. The site-specific projection for the 560-person affair, which marked the contemporary art organization's 35th year, was provided by Nuit Blanche New York and showcased the work of eight artists. Changing at specific intervals during the night, the bright animation was spread across a 300-foot "canvas" that wrapped three sides of the ballroom space.
Rounding out the sights at the event was a palette of coral and jade hues, a theme taken from the traditional and modern materials typically given on a 35th anniversary. The decor, which was provided by Renny & Reed, included coral-colored cloths covering the cocktail reception's highboys and green linens for the dinner tables. The pinkish-orange hue was also used in the napkins and the floral arrangements, while drawings of the marine formation decorated clusters of tall votives.
With honorary chairs Chloë Sevigny and Nadja Swarovski, as well as guests like Chuck Close, Jeff Koons, Francisco Costa, and Stefano Tonchi in attendance, the night honored artist Paul McCarthy and raised $1.6 million for the New Museum.