Soirée au Louvre

Summer is just another word that means party to me and other nightlife enthusiasts, and last night such enthusiasts were at it again in Midtown, as the likes of Lisa Anastos, Fabiola Beracasa, Kipton Cronkite, Peter Davis, and Thom Filicia along with The Young Patrons Circle of American Friends of the Louvre celebrated I.M Pei, the 20th Anniversary of the Louvre's Pyramid, and a few other topics that Elle Magazine, Dior, and British Airways felt necessary to celebrate. Held in an Pei-designed penthouse with Pei himself in attendance, and set to the beat of Absolut cocktails, cocktail attire, and an absolutely gorgeous night view, the event certainly stood out in strength of atmosphere amongst the varied summer soirées -- however, some of us forget the cultural significance of partying for a cause. How does one navigate the mix of muddled parties to know what it is they're benefiting? Soirée au Louvre benefit host committee member and arty partier David Chines breaks down last night's event, discussing the significance of the party venue and how we can also be a friend of the Louvre (yes we can!).

Why are we celebrating something across the pond?
It’s important that Americans show support for the museum because the Louvre goes beyond nationality. It is one of the most important cultural institutions in the world and holds our human history. The Louvre welcomes more than one million American visitors each year. Strengthening our ties with such a place is important culturally and goes beyond borders.

What is a friend of the Louvre?
American Friends of the Louvre (AFL) was founded by the Musée du Louvre in 2002 to strengthen ties between the Louvre and the American public. Our members are those people that have a true passion and love for the arts and in particular the Louvre. The YPC, Young Patrons Circle, is AFL’s committee for those under the age of 40.

Where do the proceeds go?
The money we raised at this benefit goes directly to the Louvre museum. AFL raises awareness of the Louvre’s exhibitions and permanent collection, improving accessibility of the museum to English-speaking visitors, through the English translation of the online collections database, support for the Louvre’s public programs, especially those focusing on American art, and by helping improve the museum’s galleries and expanding its collecting initiatives.

Sort of an American thing to do—make the Louvre more Americanized?
It’s about breaking down barriers and providing Americans more access and comfort within the museum. It shouldn’t be about what nationality is more present.

Good answer, David! Tell me about the amazing condo the event was held in.
The event was held in a beautiful penthouse in the new Centurion building. Co-developed by Stillman Development International, the Centurion is the world’s first residential building designed by I.M. Pei. In fact, the same marble that was used at the Louvre was imported for the building’s grand lobby. It was such an honor and privilege to have our event in this space. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Louvre’s Pyramid, and this was a perfect tie-in. AYO performed ... a double-platinum French recording artist.

It was amazing that I.M Pei was also in attendance.
The event was an incredible success. We were so fortunate to have I.M. Pei in attendance and the incredible support of Roy Stillman.

Can I befriend the Louvre?
Anyone interested can contact the organization and membership dues are $500 a year.

David Chines