On Wednesday March 12, 2025, the Art Production Fund celebrated their 25th anniversary with a stunning gala in collaboration with Saks Fifth Avenue. While entertaining an array of star studded guests, the event raised nearly $700,000 to produce public art projects. Taking over the Seagram Building in New York City, over three hundred guests participated in the celebration of creativity.
A Successful Slumber Party
Courtesy of the Artist Production Fund.
The gala encouraged guests to arrive in “Truth or Dare” inspired outfits for the unique slumber party theme, creating a playful energy for the night. Attendees were welcomed to the Seagram by an immersive installation of pink satin sheets and pillows, followed by an array of cocktails at “THE GRILL.” Champagne Lallier, Cucumber Martinis, Cosmos, and Dirty Shirley’s were indulged by guests, as well as edible cotton candy Buggy Bear sculptures by artist Alake Shilling. The venue transformed into a cozy night complete with champagne and popcorn.
Art Production Fund Executive Director Casey Fremont, Director of Operations Kathleen Lynch, and APF co-founders Yvonne Force Villareal and Doreen Remen raised their glasses for a toast, highlighting the wonderful 25 years of the company. The toast concluded with a stunning Champagne Lallier tower setting the stage for the celebration continuing to “THE POOL” for a delicious dinner.
Saks Fifth Avenue Puts On a Night to Remember
Courtesy of the Artist Production Fund.
The highlight of the evening took place at “THE POOL” where an original performance commissioned by choreographer Madeline Hollander wowed guests. Inspired by Balanchine’s “La Sonnambula” ballet, the performance titled “Sonnambula,” featured the memorizing harpist and violinist duo, LEYA. Dancers “fell asleep” in the center of the pool, wrapping the entertainment and tying into the slumber party theme of the night.
Dinner, curated by APF Board member Sarah Hoover, featured a mouth watering menu, including shrimp cocktail and Sadelle’s mini pizza bagels, served in custom APF x Saks printed pizza boxes. Illustrated bedtime storybook programs by artist Angelica Hicks, personalized Saks compact mirrors, APF barrettes, Saks-branded sleep masks, and skincare from 111SKIN were gifted as luxurious goodie bags. The exclusivity of Saks Fifth shone through the beautifully set tables, and magnetic lighting.
Raising Money For the Creative Community
Photo by Neil Rasmus BFA, courtesy of the Artist Production Fund.
Courtesy of the Artist Production Fund.
The successful night concluded with a live auction led by Sara Friedlander, Deputy Chairman of Post-War and Contemporary Art at Christie’s, and supported by UOVO Art, Fashion, and Wine. Artworks by prominent artists Katherine Bernhardt, Joel Gaitan, Greg Ito, Joel Mesler, and Hiba Schahbaz, were sold in the auction lots with proceeds going towards Art Production Fund’s mission to support innovative public art projects. APF, a non-profit organization, supports innovate public art commissions, continuing to produce projects similar to their standout pieces “Prada Marfa” and “Seven Magic Mountains.”
