“O What A Night” raised close to $800,000 for the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s award-winning exhibition, education and outreach programs. The Opus Award Honoree and Trustee Emerita was Fran Villere. The award was presented by Board Chair Allison Kendrick and Director William Andrews. Gala Chairmen and Trustees were Tommy Westervelt and Tracy Copeland. David Bernard of WDSU served as the event emcee.
For the Patron Party and Auction Preview, Dathel and Tommy Coleman hosted 250 guests in their beautiful Audubon Place home. In addition to the Coleman’s incredible art collection, patrons had the opportunity to get an up-close look at artwork that will be up for bid during the live auction at Saturday’s gala at the museum. Guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres from chef Justin Devillier of La Petite Grocery and Balise, and the winner of the James Beard Best Chef: South Award.
The main event at the museum featured decorations created by Urban Earth, which were based upon a signature “Ogden”-red theme conceived by Richard Keith Langham. Approximately 500 filled the Ogden Museum for this night, mingling to music by the ELS band.
Chef Devillier served hors d’oeuvres during the cocktail reception and silent auction. A seated dinner followed created by chef Mitch Arens of Calcasieu.
Christie’s SVP Lydia Fenet conducted the live auction. Notable auction items included pieces by Simon Gunning, Ashley Longshore, Mallory Page, George Rodrigue, George Dunbar (given in honor of Fran Villere) and Arthur Kern.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “O What a Night!,” benefiting Ogden Museum of Southern Art
When: Saturday, October 15
Where: Ogden Museum of Southern Art
