Last night, New York’s art community gathered for an unforgettable evening, marking a significant milestone at the 2025 Whitney Gala. This annual event not only celebrated a decade since the Whitney Museum’s relocation to the vibrant Meatpacking District but also commemorated the 10-year anniversary of the iconic Max Mara Whitney bag. With an astonishing $6 million raised to support the museum’s mission, the gala stood as a testament to the enduring commitment of patrons and artists alike to elevate American art.
Hosted by the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation, and with prominent figures Judy and Leonard Lauder serving as honorary co-chairs, the night boasted a star-studded guest list. Celebrities and art enthusiasts—including Leslie Bibb, Michelle Monaghan, Claire Danes, Laura Harrier, and the Hilton sisters—filled the museum’s impressive galleries, creating an electric atmosphere that reflected the vibrancy of the art world itself.
Honoring Artistic Legacy
In a night dedicated to recognizing exemplary contributions to art, the gala paid homage to three extraordinary individuals who have shaped the cultural landscape: Amy Sherald, a renowned artist celebrated for her powerful portraits; Barbara Haskell, a distinguished curator and scholar; and Richard DeMartini, a dedicated patron of the arts. Each speaker took the stage to share their insights, drawing attention to the transformative power of art and its ability to foster community.
Amy Sherald’s poignant address particularly resonated with the audience. Best known for her striking portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama, Sherald reflected on her artistic journey. “I didn’t set out to make history; I wanted to create visuals that represent my world,” she stated, invoking a sense of inclusivity. Her words echoed a central theme of the evening: art serves as a bridge, connecting diverse experiences and facilitating deeper understanding among individuals from various backgrounds.
The Whitney’s Vision for Inclusivity
The mission of the Whitney—dedicated to celebrating both historic and contemporary American art—was manifest throughout the evening. Scott Rothkopf, the museum’s director, revisited a poignant remark made by Michelle Obama during the opening ceremony of the new downtown location in 2015. “So many children perceive museums as distant and unwelcoming,” he quoted, emphasizing the need for institutions to dismantle these barriers.
To address this challenge, the Whitney has implemented initiatives like Free Friday Nights and Free Second Sundays, ensuring that art is accessible to all. Rothkopf’s commitment to fostering inclusivity fosters a welcoming environment for future generations of artists and patrons, reinforcing the idea that art and culture should be a shared experience.
The Heart of the Whitney
Barbara Haskell’s heartfelt tribute encapsulated the essence of the Whitney’s journey over the years. Having dedicated decades of her life to the museum, she nostalgically recounted memories of curating exhibitions and even planting tomatoes on the museum’s rooftop with fellow staff. Haskell’s narrative intertwined personal history with institutional growth, underscoring the familial spirit that permeates the Whitney. “Despite our evolution, we’ve always remained a family,” she remarked, tying the emotional bond shared by those involved with the museum to the larger community impacted by its presence.
Just when the energy in the room reached its peak, a surprise performance by the legendary group TLC infused the gala with excitement. Their music resonated with nostalgia while symbolizing the continuing influence of artistic expression, leaving guests energized and elated.
Art as a Catalyst for Change
As the night progressed, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation for what lies ahead. Beyond merely celebrating the past decade of the Whitney, attendees seemed inspired to ponder the future of American art. The evening’s festivities highlighted not only the achievements made over the years but also the vital importance of nurturing the next generation of creators. The gathering of artists, curators, and patrons underscored a collective commitment to ensuring that art remains an accessible and integral part of cultural identity.
With voices sharing the triumphs and struggles of the art world, this year’s Whitney Gala exemplified the gallery’s mission of embracing creativity and inclusivity, attesting to the resurrecting spirit of art that reaches far beyond individual creators. The resounding message? The doors of the Whitney are open, and the future of American art is a collaborative journey yet to unfold.