LongHouse Reserve held its annual Artist’s Cocktail reception, announcing plans for its upcoming Summer Benefit, Beautopia, on June 27. Hosts Greg McCarthy and Peter Bickford opened their Fifth Avenue residence for over 80 guests.
Now in its third year, the pre-gala reception allows Board members to personally meet and thank the artists participating in the benefit. “One of the greatest pleasures of recent weeks is getting to know all the different artists that bring so much joy to LongHouse,” said Lara Sweeney, the newly appointed LongHouse Executive Director, “More than 60 artists are contributing to our gala auction.”
Louis Bradbury, LongHouse Reserve Board President, said, “Lara only started about a month ago, but already she has brought such energy and enthusiasm to LongHouse. As we look ahead to this year’s gala and the future of the gardens and programs, it’s exciting to have her helping lead this next chapter for the organization.”
“‘Utopia’ is the party theme this year,” said Gael Towey, Gala Co-Chair and Board member, “The way that nature and art communicate in the garden. This year’s honorees, both of whom are here tonight; artist Sean Scully, recognized for his contributions to contemporary abstraction and whose sculpture is currently on view at LongHouse; Bruce Horten, recognized for his decades-long commitment to our organization and the arts.” “Our benefit is our largest fundraiser that we have at LongHouse,” said Raisa Lopez-Rhoden, Gala Co-Chair and Board member, “It’s an important event for the community, helping us reinvest in our gardens.”