FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 21, 2014, KLEINBURG ON – On Saturday, June 14, 2014, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection held its third annual Moonlight Gala, which raised over $150,000, making it the most successful fundraising event in the gallery’s history. More than 400 guests dined and danced on the stunning open-air terrace and explored the McMichael’s renowned collection of Canadian masterworks.
“This year’s gala was a spectacular success,” said Dr. Victoria Dickenson, McMichael Executive Director and CEO. “Guests gathered under the full moon to celebrate the power of art, the beauty of the land, and the unique way that art and nature come together in this charmed place. Proceeds from the event will support the McMichael’s ongoing work to engage with art and nature through exhibitions that explore Canada from coast-to-coast-to-coast and through programs that engage people of all ages and abilities in art and art making.”
Upon arriving at the gallery, guests were greeting by valet parking and walked the signature blue carpet before enjoying champagne and gourmet cuisine catered by Daniel et Daniel, as well as late night treats by Dolcini by Joseph, FAEMA, and Dolcetti on the Hill, Jelly Modern Doughnuts, Ninutik, and Cashew and Clive. The event also featured a special Moonlight Martini by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, a selection of award-winning Ontario wines, and a scotch bar provided by Via Allegro Ristorante—a Moonlight Gala favourite.
“It was a fantastic evening for the McMichael and its many sponsors, supporters, donors, and guests,” said Gala Chair and McMichael Trustee, Diane Wilson. “The energy was tremendous. Guests were transported by the phenomenal entertainment, the smell of the pine trees, and the all-around beauty of the evening.”
Highlights included a spectacular performance by JUNO Award-winning jazz chanteuse Sophie Milman, and a live art installation by Cube Works Studio, who recreated Tom Thomson’s iconic painting Byng Inlet with Rubik’s Cubes. Throughout the night, guests danced to the music of The Collective, an ensemble featuring powerhouse singers Alana Bridgewater and Sean Jones.
The live and silent auctions raised more than $75,000 through an impressive array of items, including an exclusive trip to London and an evening of art and conversation at the McMichael.
Next year’s Moonlight Gala will take place on Saturday, June 13, 2015.
McMichael Moonlight Gala Acknowledgements
The McMichael would like to express its gratitude and acknowledge the event donors, sponsors and supporters:
Merit Travel Group (Ultimate Escape Sponsor), Deloitte (Conservation Partner), Kleinburg Crown Estates (Community Sponsor), RBC (Cocktail Reception Sponsor), TD (Concierge Sponsor), John Paul & Co. (Red Carpet Sponsor), The Source (Guest Welcome Sponsor), Nashville Developments Inc. (After Dinner Reception Sponsor), Herzig (Photography Sponsor), Crowe Soberman (Evening Program Sponsor), Coventry North and Jaguar, LandRover (Automotive Partner)
In-Kind Donors: AIMIA, Air Canada, Daniel et Daniel, KeyGordon, Via Allegro Ristorante, Corporate Patrons: Altas Partners, Assante Wealth Management, BMO, CIBC, Davies, Ensil Canada Ltd., Ernst & Young, Grant Thornton, Hatch, Pimco, PowerStream, Progressive Waste Solutions, Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, Timbercreek Asset Management, Torys, Media Partners: CP24, CTV, The Globe and Mail, JAZZ.FM91, WNED, Media Supporters: Dolce Magazine, City Life, City Life TV, King MOSAiC, Persian Tribune, TorontoHOME, YYZ, Event Donors: Adagio Valet, Angle Media Group, Canada Dry Mott’s, Aura by Cashew and Clive, Dimitriadis Design Build, Dolcetti on the Hill, Dolcini by Joseph, Jelly Modern Doughnuts, Ninutik, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Sara Kardooni, Steam Whistle Brewing.
For more information about the gala: mcmichael.com/moonlightgala.
About the McMichael Canadian Art Collection
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is the foremost venue in the country showcasing the Group of Seven and their contemporaries. In addition to touring exhibitions, its permanent collection consists of almost 6,000 artworks by Canadian artists, including paintings by the Group of Seven and their contemporaries, as well as First Nations, Métis and Inuit artists. The gallery acknowledges the support of the McMichael Canadian Art Foundation. It is located on 100 acres of northern landscape and hiking trails at 10365 Islington Avenue, Kleinburg, north of Major Mackenzie Drive in the City of Vaughan. For more information: mcmichael.com.
For media inquiries:
Wendy Campbell
Manager, Media Relations and Online Presence
McMichael Canadian Art Collection
905.893.1121 ext. 2201
wcampbell@mcmichael.com
Rachel Weiner
Media Relations and Communications Coordinator
McMichael Canadian Art Collection
905.893.1121 ext. 2210
rweiner@mcmichael.com