Marina Abramović and Thomas Heatherwick Honored at the Royal Academy America 2017 Gala

“The truth is always so much more interesting than myth,” actor and comedian Stephen Fry announced to black tie–adorned guests at this year’s Royal Academy America gala. “You know our famous landmark in London, Tower Bridge,” he continued, “it so happens that it is newer than Brooklyn Bridge.” Referring to opening date rather than start of construction, this bit of information is true. But here Fry was reminding the audience of the strong bond between the U.S. and U.K.—and a mutual appreciation for powerful art and design. Royal Academy America, the U.S. office for the Royal Academy of Arts, advocates for 80 artists, designers, and architects stateside—and the gala made clear there are no boundaries for these global visionaries.