Nothing kicks off summer in the art world quite like The Glass House Summer Party. At the site of this modernist marvel that continues to inspire artists, architects, and designers today, this annual gathering happens at an opportune time after a busy spring season in the art world. Comprising a silent auction, exhibitions, performances, and carefully assembled picnic baskets, the Summer Party both celebrates the continued significance of this sprawling campus and site while also allowing visitors to relax and connect with nature.
The Glass House Celebrates the Late Gaetano Pesce
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
This year, the Glass House honored Italian architect and designer Gaetano Pesce, who passed away last year, with the debut of a limited-edition vase, Edizioni del Pesce, Big Surprise 2, which was created in collaboration with Meritalia®. The robust auction, hosted by Artsy, includes a range of compelling offerings, from a table light by Lindsey Adelman, a photograph by Cindy Sherman, as well as other works by artists such as Kim Bartelt, Deborah Brown, Mitchell Johnson, Barbara Kasten, and Laurie Simmons.
Pesce’s B&B Italia Serie Up 2000 Armchair is also included in the mix, for those looking to enhance their collectible design collections. The tent had great food and drinks, with some especially delicious and strong iced espresso beverages at the UOVO: Art, Fashion, and Wine Lounge, which created a lively environment in the auction area.
With many sites of historical significance that open their doors to the public, much thought is dedicated to finding ways to create programs that keep the space feeling lively and connected to contemporary culture while remaining steadfast in honoring the past. The Glass House has done an excellent job of curating a dynamic program of exhibitions and performances during its open season. The Summer Party is no exception, as they brought Pilobolus, an internationally acclaimed modern dance company, to present two performances that unfolded throughout the event.
Sculptures by Barbara Kasten
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
Another exciting component of the day was having the opportunity to see “Structure, Light, Land,” an exhibition of photographs and sculptural installations by Barbara Kasten spread across the Glass House campus’ main venues for exhibiting art.
Kasten’s work is deeply rooted in the built environment and modernist architectural principles, so her activations are displayed with a surgical precision and engage directly with the places they inhabit. It’s a rare opportunity for an artist to have this range of spaces to exhibit work at the Glass House, and Kasten does not take this opportunity for granted. It is always a thrill to see Kasten’s work in the wild, and visitors have the chance to view her work through the end of the year.
The Brick House Reopens
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
Also something new for frequent Glass House visitors is the reopening of the Brick House, which was closed in 2008 and required significant work due to water issues and reopened last year. Conceived as a guest house, the Brick House was designed as a direct foil to the Glass House. Located mere steps from the Glass House, the building accommodated guests such as Phyllis Lambert and Andy Warhol.
The building plays an important role in understanding the history of the Glass House, so having an opportunity to see the interior and understand the program of the building helps visitors understand the full story of this place. Another fun anecdote: the Reading Room has two ‘Feltri’ chairs designed by Pesce, and the colors of those chairs directly connect to the vases on offer in connection to the event.
Presented by Max Mara with additional support from Design Within Reach and Land Rover Darien, the event was brought to life through a range of local sponsors, artists who donated incredible works, and the organization’s strong and loyal patrons.
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
The Glass House Summer Party, photo by Neil Landino.
