Inside the Frick Collection’s Elegant Autumn Dinner

Last night, The Frick Collection hosted its annual Autumn Dinner. While Henry Clay Frick’s mansion remains under construction, the Metropolitan Club served as a worthy surrogate. Many of the city’s most noted philanthropists and creatives descended on the private club. Towering flower arrangements in shades of red and orange transformed the space. 

Carolina Herrera’s Wes Gordon attended the glittering affair along with his husband, Paul Arnhold. The two gentlemen dressed casually in simple dark suits with bare necks. Around them, men in bow ties and cummerbunds paraded through the ornate rooms. Clouds of colored tulle and yards of sequins adored the women. Emerging designer Bach Mai shimmered in a green jacket of his own making.

After cocktails and canapés, guests transitioned into the West Lounge for a scrumptious dinner.  Under the soaring, twenty-four-foot ceiling painted with a celestial mural, revelers enjoyed a fall feast of branzino and steak.

In between courses, Ian Wardropper, the museum’s director, introduced the guest of honor: Marina Kellen French, whom Wardopper called “a living landmark of the city.” He did not exaggerate. The Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Foundation, started by French in honor of her late parents, has enriched and protected many of New York’s most valuable institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Carnegie Hall, MoMA PS1, Columbia Business School, Weill Cornell Medicine, among others. Her relationship with The Frick is long and storied. Wardropper presented her with a commemorative silver tray from Christofle to thank her for her years of service.  

In her acceptance speech, French, who was joined at the event by her children and grandchildren, reflected on the power of art institutions to connect generations. “I have cherished this beautiful museum since my early childhood,” French said. “My father simply loved coming to the Frick, especially to pay homage to Bellini’s St Francis of the Desert, which was his absolute favorite painting. He took me to see it at least once a month. Very quickly, it became one of my favorite paintings in New York.”

As seen through the creation of The Frick Madison, located at the former site of the Met Breuer,  the museum’s staff and benefactors keep the spirit of the institution alive from afar. The spirit of connection and endurance, achieved through a love of art, infused the evening.