Proceeds benefit the McMichael Canadian Art Collection’s educational programming, permanent collection and curation of special exhibitions
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 24, 2015, KLEINBURG ON—The stars aligned on Saturday, June 6, 2015 as 500 guests celebrated an evening of art and nature at the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, raising more than $225,000 for the gallery.
The signature fundraising event featured notable guests including Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua – City of Vaughan, fashion guru Jeanne Beker, Steve Paikin, Catherine Nugent, Jake Gold and former Lieutenant Governor of Ontario The Hon. Henry N.R. Jackman; in addition, to a headlining music performance by international Latin jazz sensation, Amanda Martinez. Emceed by co-host of Canada AM, Beverly Thomson, guests were treated to a culinary extravaganza and had the opportunity to bid on exceptional items through a silent and live auction presided over by auctioneer Jay Mandarino.
Gala Chair, Diane Wilson could not have envisioned a better outcome as the head of the committee. Wilson explained, “There is simply no other event in Toronto that can compare to the McMichael Moonlight Gala. The spectacular surroundings and incredible energy of the evening make it one of the most celebrated events of the year.” She continued, “Thanks to the efforts of this year’s committee, all the money raised will help the McMichael continue to thrive and attract new visitors to the gallery. I couldn’t be more proud of what we have accomplished.”
Throughout the night, guests were treated to the sounds of jazz ensemble, The Collective with Alana Bridgewater, Sean Jones and Miles Rainey. Sophie Milman, JUNO award-winning singer (and Gala committee member) gave a surprise performance, jumping on stage with Amanda Martinez to get guests dancing!
“The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is vital to promoting and encouraging Canadian arts and culture and tonight we were all privileged to experience the magic of the gallery,” said Frank Rochon, Vice-Chair of Deloitte. “As presenting sponsor of the Moonlight Gala, we are honoured to support the gallery, ensuring that everyone has access to this epicentre of Canadian art.”
Highlights from the evening included an abundance of gourmet cuisine, award-winning Ontario wines, fine scotches and decadent desserts, exclusive access to explore the galleries all night long, amazing live and silent auction prizes, plus the chance to win travel gift cards through The Ultimate Escape by Merit Travel.
“Tonight was truly incredible thanks to all the patrons and art enthusiasts whose passion drove new heights of generosity for this Canadian gem,” said John Bianchini, CEO of presenting sponsor, Hatch. “We are thrilled to support the gallery as they continue to introduce new opportunities for the public to experience the power of art.”
For more information about the McMichael Moonlight Gala, visit moonlightgala.mcmichael.com.
McMichael Moonlight Gala Acknowledgements: The McMichael would like to express its gratitude and acknowledge the event donors, sponsors and supporters:
Hatch Engineering (Presenting Sponsor), Deloitte (Presenting Sponsor), Merit Travel (Ultimate Escape Sponsor), RBC (Cocktail Reception Sponsor), TD Bank Financial Group (Concierge Sponsor), Kleinburg Crown Estates (Community Sponsor), Crowe Soberman (Red Carpet Sponsor), American Standard – DVX (Luxury Design Sponsor), Herzig Eye Institute (Photography Sponsor), Nashville Developments Inc. (After Dinner Reception Sponsor), CityZen (Urban Lifestyle Sponsor), Corporate Patrons: Canadian Shield Capital, CIBC, Grant Thornton LLP, Kearns Edgewater Financial Services Inc., Kiani Foundation, PowerStream, Norton Rose Fulbright, John Paul & Co, PIMCO, Jones Collombin, Iain MacInnes/RBC Dominion Securities, Timbercreek Asset Management. Media Partners: CP24, JAZZ.FM91, The Globe and Mail. Media Supporters: View the Vibe, Zoomer. In-Kind Donors: Air Canada, EastDell Estates Wines, KeyGordon, Maverick PR, Steam Whistle. Food stations generously donated by: Aura by Cashew & Clive, Daniel et Daniel, Encore Catering, On The Move Catering & Events, Presidential Gourmet, Seventh Heaven, Dolcini by Joseph, and Via Allegro Ristorante. Event Donors: Alpine Graphics, Canada Dry Mott’s, Dimitriadis Design Build, Dolcetti on the Hill, FAEMA, Goldrich PrintPak Inc, New York Fries & South Street Burger, Lindt, Ninutik (Maple Sugar), Via Allegro Ristorante.
About the McMichael Canadian Art Collection
The McMichael Canadian Art Collection is an agency of the Government of Ontario and acknowledges the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, and the McMichael Canadian Art Foundation. It 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 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.
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Media Contacts:
Daniela Travierso-Galati
Media Relations and Communications Coordinator
McMichael Canadian Art Collection
905.893.1121 ext. 2210
dtravierso-galati@mcmichael.com
Annabel Lee
MAVERICK
416.650.5525 ext. 224
annabell@wearemaverick.com