Gorgeous gowns in jewel tones and tropical hues, as well as elegant attire often highlighted by a vibrant accent, seen entering the Louisiana State Museum’s Cabildo on the evening of Nov. 17 meant guests got the “memo”: wear something inspired by artist Hunt Slonem’s paintings.
The occasion was the Louisiana State Museum Founders Ball V, which also acted as a kick-off to the exhibition, “Hunt Slonem | A Retrospective,” on view through Oct. 14, 2024, on the third floor of the Cabildo.
“The Louisiana Museum Foundation was honored to present the 2023 Founders Ball to open this monumental exhibit, “Hunt Slonem: A Retrospective,” curated by Cybele Gontar and featuring artwork loaned from Louisiana collectors,” said Kristin Shannon, foundation executive director.
The evening began with a cocktail hour on the ground floor and courtyard, before guests headed upstairs for the gala and the exhibition. The building’s architecture and party spaces were enhanced by clever decorative touches and florals by Pamela Dennis New Orleans.
Entertainment included Harry Hardin and Sam Craft, as well as a jazz trio featuring Ricardo Pascal. The main act of the night was David Torkanowsky’s “Torkestra” with special guest Judith Owen.
Patron party cuisine was from LeBlanc & Smith and Five’s and the dinner buffet was provided by 12 Seasons Catering & Events.
“The foundation is most grateful to Hunt Slonem for sharing his time and talent, the co-chairs, honorary chairs, honoree, and the board of directors, as well as for the support of our generous sponsors and donors who continue to help fund quality exhibitions and programming to the state museum,” said Shannon.
Event co-chairs were Jane Scott Hodges, Philip Hodges, Jennifer Lauscha, Dennis Lauscha, and Martine Chaisson-Linares and Juan Linares.
Fun Fact: Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser, under whose umbrella the Louisiana State Museum falls, presented honoree Gayle Benson and honorary co-chairs Pat and Henry Shane with the Gilded Palette Award. Slonem also gifted Mrs. Benson with a black and gold bunny painting.
