The Frick Collection’s highly anticipated Young Fellows Ball returned in full bloom this spring, welcoming guests back to its Fifth Avenue home with a renewed sense of elegance, artistry, and celebration.
This year’s theme, Porcelain Garden, drew inspiration from the museum’s reopening installation by Vladimir Kanevsky. The fundraising event offered an immersive experience for New York’s next generation of cultural patrons.
A Grand Return to Fifth Avenue
Held for the first time since the museum’s multi-year renovation, the 2025 Ball marked a triumphant return to The Frick’s iconic Gilded Age mansion. In partnership with fashion designer Bach Mai and Bucherer Fine Jewellery, the event blended heritage and contemporary artistry to celebrate both the institution and its vibrant community of supporters.
Fashion Meets Florals
Guests embraced the evening’s Porcelain Garden theme with creativity and flair. From flowing, floral gowns to intricate, botanically inspired menswear and accessories, the dress code transformed the museum into a live garden of expression and style. The museum’s new porcelain installation — a tribute to the original 1935 floral arrangements — added an ethereal backdrop.
Immersive Art & Experiences
The evening featured two interactive photo moments on each floor of the museum, echoing the lifelike porcelain flower sculptures on view. Guests also enjoyed exclusive gallery talks, including spotlights on works by Turner and Lawrence, the Fragonard Room’s Sèvres porcelain, and the museum’s newly opened second floor.
Elegant Entertainment & A VIP Experience
Music by DJs Angel + Dren set a celebratory tone. Olivier Cheng Catering & Events delighted guests with elegant hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Stellar Style Events provided sophisticated decor, with L&M Sound & Light enhancing the ambiance. A new VIP Lounge debuted this year, offering an added layer of exclusivity and luxe gift bags for the Frick’s most generous supporters.
A Night of Giving Back
The ball raised more than $500,000, supporting vital programming at The Frick. Programming includes its Art Research Library and Education Department, which serves public school students from across New York City. These funds also ensure access to the Frick’s world-class exhibitions and initiatives for audiences around the world.
The Future of Philanthropy in the Arts
The event was chaired by a standout group of cultural leaders, including Paul Arnhold, Misty Copeland, Laurence Ross Milstein, Arielle Patrick, and Lola Tung, whose involvement highlights the evolving face of philanthropic leadership in the arts.
