Jamee and Peter Gregory, generous trailblazers in philanthropy for the arts, are the recipients of this summer’s Champion of Arts Award at the 11th annual Southampton Arts Center Gala on August 17.
Jamee and Peter are two people who seemingly never slow down. Gregory, a former financial advisor at Morgan Stanley, has been passionately committed to the arts for decades. Jamee, a popular style-maven and beloved author, works with Gregory as a team, tirelessly focusing on furthering art, culture, and the community on behalf of the center and other causes.
“We are focused on bringing all the things we love about New York City, art, music, and culture to the town of Southampton and the East End overall,” said Jamee. Now full-time residents of the East End, their years of dedication to the arts in New York City are undoubtedly a significant contribution to the Southampton Arts Center.
This year’s SummerFest takes place during “Couples Squared,” an exhibition, guest-curated by Phyllis Tuchman, is a unique showcase that delves into the dynamic interplay between creative partners, presenting a diverse array of paintings, sculptures, and photographs that span the spectrum of artistic expression.
“There was and is still a void in town in terms of creating a sense of community that is accessible to everyone,” said Jamee. “Working with the board and Christina Strassfield, director of the center, we were determined to bring the venue to new heights, a place that represents all the arts — from music to fine art and family events… Not everyone has ventured inside the center since the reincarnation of the space since we took over. That is our primary goal.”
Executive Director Christina Strassfield, who worked for Guild Hall for 29 years, brings undeniable experience to SAC. She thinks outside the box and embraces the freedom and creative possibilities presented by the venue.
“The timing was right for me to make a move,” she said. “This is a place that gives me the freedom and the ability to bring art in every form to the community all year. From books, film, and music, I am committed to bringing everyone a wide range of programs and exhibits to the Hamptons.”
For Christina, it’s about flexibility and energy. “I can bring any exhibit or performance to the center, from emerging artists to young musicians to unexpected talent. That freedom aligns with my mission to make art, culture, and talent accessible and available to everyone as they walk in town and just want to come in.”
SummerFest, one of Southampton’s most highly anticipated events of the summer season, will take place from 6 to 10:30 PM. Starting with a cocktail reception with a wide range of great chefs and restaurants on the East End, the evening continues with a seated dinner, dancing, and entertainment.
Audrey and Martin Gruss, Karen and Richard LeFrak, Simone and David Levinson, and Hilary and Wilbur Ross co-chair the gala. Co-hosts for the event are Anne and Keith Barish, Gigi and Harry Benson, April Gornik and Eric Fischl, Kim Heirston, Chris and Richard Mack, Fern Mallis, Bill Manger, Margo Nederlander, Zibby and Kyle Owens, Nicole and Allen Salmasi, Stefano Tonchi, Marcy and Michael Warren, and Bettina Zilkha.
