In the mid-’60s, Jane Holzer (or Baby Jane, as she was affectionately dubbed by Women’s Wear Daily) was a New York City art world and nightlife legend—the It-est of all It girls. Andy Warhol featured her in films like Couch, Soap Opera, and Camp. She was featured in the pages of Vogue, then helmed by Diana Vreeland, and was profiled in a 1964 Tom Wolfe essay titled “Girl of the Year,” which pretty much says it all.
Last night, Holzer, who remains a legend today as a collector, real estate investor, and philanthropist, was honored by BHQFU at its annual benefit and auction. BHQFU is the educational arm of the Bruce High Quality Foundation, an artists’ collective formed in 2004 dedicated to leveling the industry’s steep playing field by providing a free art school and community place—and Holzer fittingly joined the board recently.
Held at Palazzo Chupi, the iconic home of Julian Schnabel, the intimate event paid homage to both Holzer’s legacy and the important work BHQFU does today. The cuisine was simple but inspired—the ubiquitous kale Caesar, but done right; a chicken tagine and naan with tzatziki; and a lemon thyme shortbread, as well as other goodies for dessert. Designer Zac Posen, a cohost of the event, held court with Bernadette Peters by his side. Model, musician, and Riccardo Tisci muse Jamie Bochert flitted about with photographer Sofia Malamute. Jemima Kirke, actress and painter, was all red-lipped smiles—highlighted by her chic new haircut.
At the end of the night, a live auction was held, with paintings by Francesco Clemente and Rita Ackermann finding new homes. And the group’s rallying call—passion, irreverence, and a rejection of snobbery all embodied in Holzer’s attitude—was soundly heard.