Explore the fascinating stories behind the exhibits at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum by checking out their feature in the museum’s Artscope Magazine (November-December 2024 issue). Dive deeper into the art and inspiration shaping the museum's latest offerings, including the latest art installation on the Anne H. Fitzpatrick Façade:
Moondance Gala /
The Esplanade Association's Moondance Gala, held on September 21, 2024, at Fiedler Field on the Charles River Esplanade, celebrated Boston's iconic riverside park.
The evening featured sunset cocktails beneath the tree canopy, an elegant dinner in the Grand Tent, and dancing under the stars.
Proceeds supported the park's maintenance, free programming, and capital improvements. The event honored Catherine T. Morris with the Arthur Fiedler Achievement Award.
Opening Night at Symphony Gala /
On September 19, 2024, the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) inaugurated its season with a spectacular Opening Night Gala at Symphony Hall. The evening included the world premiere of "Festive Fanfare and Overture," a vibrant composition by Carlos Simon, the BSO's new Composer Chair, celebrating Andris Nelsons' 10th anniversary as music director.
The evening's lineup featured acclaimed mezzo-soprano Susan Graham, the dynamic piano duo of Lang Lang and Gina Alice Redlinger, and rising violinist Keila Wakao, winner of the 2023 Boston Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition
Following the concert, Symphony Hall was transformed into an enchanting French garden for the gala dinner, where guests dined on swordfish au poivre and other creations curated by chef Ken Oringer.
It was a beautiful evening that created excitement for the season ahead.
Dinner Under The Stars- Beacon Hill Civic Association /
On September 14, 2024, the Beacon Hill Civic Association (BHCA) hosted its "Dinner Under the Stars" on Mt. Vernon Street in Boston.
Photo by Marianne Salza
The event featured a cocktail reception, a three-course dinner, and live classical music by a quartet led by Stephanie Oestreich. Approximately 275 guests attended, supporting BHCA's mission to preserve and enrich the quality of life in the historic neighborhood.
Photo by Marianne Salza
Photo by Marianne Salza
The "Dinner Under the Stars" exemplified the strong sense of community and tradition that defines Beacon Hill, leaving attendees with cherished memories and anticipation for future neighborhood gatherings.
Oh What A Night- Theatre Workshop of Nantucket /
On July 31, 2024, the Theatre Workshop of Nantucket hosted "Oh, What A Night," a one-night-only summer benefit at the Siasconset Casino in Siasconset, Massachusetts.
Continuing their tradition of bringing Broadway magic 30 miles out to sea, the event featured captivating performances featuring The Midtown Men, stars from the original Broadway cast of "Jersey Boys," that delighted attendees.
The event was not only a musical delight but also a successful fundraiser supporting Theatre Workshop of Nantucket's 2024 season. The combination of Broadway talent and Nantucket's rich theatrical history made for an unforgettable evening!
Celebrating Save Venice's Conservation of the Church of San Sebastino /
In June 2024, Save Venice celebrated the remarkable culmination of its 18-year conservation campaign for the Church of San Sebastiano in Venice. This historic effort restored the church’s stunning 16th-century architecture, sculptures, and paintings, including masterpieces by Renaissance artist Paolo Veronese.
Funded by $3.8 million in contributions from over 100 donors, the campaign was a collaborative achievement involving Venice’s Ministry of Culture, the Catholic Diocese of Venice, and nearly two dozen restoration firms.
The celebratory weekend began with a Friday evening gathering at San Sebastiano, where donors and Venetian restorers admired the completed restoration. Remarks by Save Venice leaders and experts highlighted the project's significance, followed by a reception at Ca’ Rezzonico, Venice’s museum of 18th-century art. Guests also enjoyed a performance by the Venice Music Project.
Saturday featured exclusive tours of other recent restorations supported by Save Venice, including exhibits at Ca’ Rezzonico and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco.
That evening, guests dined at the Palladian villa La Malcontenta, hosted by Board member Ferigo Foscari. The dinner, held under frescoed ceilings, was an extraordinary highlight of the weekend.
The celebration concluded on Sunday with a private tour of a sister exhibition in Bassano del Grappa, showcasing prints and drawings connected to the campaign. Guests also enjoyed a farewell reception in Venice, capping a weekend that celebrated the enduring impact of Save Venice’s efforts and the generosity of its donor community.
A Note of Thanks:
This monumental achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our donors, whose generosity funded the campaign, and the expertise of Venice’s Ministry of Culture, the Catholic Diocese of Venice, and the nearly two dozen restoration firms who brought this vision to life. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the restoration of San Sebastiano, ensuring the preservation of this cultural treasure for generations to come.
Celebrating Together /
On June 11, 2024, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum hosted a remarkable evening celebrating the unveiling of On Christopher Street: Transgender Portraits by Mark Seliger and Possession of a Recalcitrant Dream by Hakeem Adewumi on the Anne H. Fitzpatrick Facade.
©2024, Hakeem Adewumi, Photo: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston
Guests enjoyed inspiring remarks from Peggy Fogelman, curatorial insights from Adrienne Chaparro, and engaging programming in Calderwood Hall. The event was a powerful tribute to art's role in fostering visibility and community, leaving attendees deeply moved and inspired.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating these impactful exhibitions!
Anne Fitzpatrick with artist Hakeem Adewumi at the evening’s celebration.
The Perseverant Prophet /
Raqib Shaw’s The Perseverant Prophet was featured on the Anne H. Fitzpatrick Façade from February 6 to June 4, 2024.
©2024, Raqib Shaw, Photo: Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston
A cocktail reception was held in celebration of the the opening on February 13, 2024.