Phoenix Art Museum recently hosted its annual fundraiser, The pARTy in the Garden, on April 11, with a notable attendance of nearly 500 guests. The event, which celebrated the Arizona premiere of the exhibition, The World of Anna Sui, achieved a historic milestone by raising $2.2 million. This marks the highest amount ever collected in the event’s nearly two-decade history. The gala, together with the late-night afterpARTy, was chaired by Jordan Rose and Rob Walton, alongside Jay Franke and David Herro. The afterpARTy was co-chaired by Andrew and Jennifer Cooper.
Jeremy Mikolajczak, the Museum’s Sybil Harrington Director and CEO, expressed gratitude, stating, “On behalf of everyone at Phoenix Art Museum, I extend our heartfelt thanks to the chairs, guests, and supporters of this year’s pARTy in the Garden, including designer Anna Sui who joined us to celebrate the Arizona premiere of The World of Anna Sui.”
Guests experienced an evening under the stars in the Dorrance Sculpture Garden, with themes inspired by the rock ‘n’ roll romance designs of Anna Sui. Attendees were treated to immersive décor, a culinary presentation by Tarbell’s, and a private preview of the exhibition before its public opening. Notable during the event was the announcement of a $1 million gift from Jordan Rose and Rob Walton, establishing the Rob Walton, Jordan Rose, and Rose Law Group Fund for Contemporary Art to support exhibitions, programs, and scholarships in contemporary art.
The evening’s success was also bolstered by $1.2 million raised through ticket sales, table sales, and donations. Following dinner, The afterpARTy featured a performance by electronic music artist Felix Cartal and other art-inspired activities. All proceeds from the event support the Museum’s exhibitions, educational initiatives, and operations.
Phoenix Art Museum, since its establishment in 1959, has engaged visitors with a diverse collection and programs. Located in Phoenix’s Central Corridor, the Museum sees an average of 300,000 visitors annually and hosts a variety of exhibitions and cultural events.
