Barnes Foundation Art Ball Showcases French Artist Suzanne Valadon
By the light of the silvery moon (and purple-hazy pool reflection), one magical evening at the 2021 Barnes Foundation Art Ball took place.
“One of the things that’s quite striking when you look at her self-portraits is her attitude to aging. There’s a refusal of prettiness there … and an attention to the artifice of beautifying yourself, and then this very unflinching representation of her body as it changes.” – Nancy Ireson, deputy director for collections and exhibitions at the Barnes Foundation, speaking about Suzanne Valadon
Story, photos by Sharon Kozden
It’s been some time since I had reason to slither into a slinky cocktail dress and to slip on a pair of heels. Makeup? What’s that? Pandemic notwithstanding, a dress-code vogue of athleisure and loungewear – along with a cosmetics free lifestyle has long been gaining momentum. Comfort is key: my skin thanks me for leaving well enough alone.
That said, when I received an invite to the Barnes Art Ball in October, I froze. Did I even remember how to get my primp on? I managed to rally for the occasion, scoring a glam dress for twenty bucks at Nordstrom Rack and a simple pair of black pumps from Target. Off I went to the Barnes Foundation on the Ben Franklin Parkway with VIP ticket, required ID and proof of vaccination in tow. I also spent a good deal of time futzing with my dress, teetering awkwardly in what felt like stilettos and longing to be reunited with sweatpants and clodhoppers. Hopefully, that just-like-riding-a-bike socializing muscle memory will soon return.
Mother Nature staged a glorious and painterly autumn evening for the event. Her splendor at dusk rivaled scores of beautiful people (art patrons, collectors and philanthropists among them), who came out in support of the Foundation’s ongoing educational initiatives, community-allied programs and exhibition promotion as well as to preview the featured showing, “Suzanne Valadon: Model, Painter, Rebel” (September 26, 2021, through January 9, 2022). Event organizers made maximum use of outdoor areas, so I was able to photograph guests as they lifted champagne flutes from topiary-like stands, sipped bubbly and nibbled light bites (succulent oysters and more!), while mingling along the promenade known as Neubauer Plaza, which is named after former Barnes Chair Joseph Neubauer.
From my vantage point along the plaza, I witnessed quite the eclectic, statement-making fashion choices parading past. Ensembles ran the gamut from dynamic and festive to artfully stylish to standard cocktail or black tie. Who can forget Jen Su wearing a head-turning creation by local Philadelphia designer Conrad Booker? The waist-to-train length material was a type of surgical supply tape, which is not surprising, as anyone who knows Booker’s work is familiar with his propensity to reimagine in his designs all manner of functional items of daily use. Clock the shoes this originator also fitted Jen in–unusually shaped and affixed with dragon heads streaming with bright red silken manes. The known design principle of form following function was reversed to display functional material as form. Nice upending, re-mix and out-of-box imagination, Mr. Booker.
At the soiree’s entrance, I was mesmerized by what would be only the beginning of fabulous entertainment reveals. The Philadelphia School of Circus Arts captivated all with “Ambient Aerial Artistry” performances. The uber-talented group was intentionally selected with Suzanne Valadon in mind, as she had spent youthful years with the Cirque Molier after having been discovered by its owner Ernest Molier. Imagine one day you’re 15-year-old peddling vegetables, then in relatively short order, you’re dangling and swinging from on high as a trapeze artist. Unfortunately, Valadon sustained a debilitating fall resulting in a serious back injury that jettisoned her athletic artistry but led to art of a different medium. Surely the evening’s aerial pageantry would’ve thrilled this artist.
Just inside the entryway, an inviting area was staged for photo ops. It featured a wall of stacked books as backdrop with a royal blue-hued sofa in front, a large area rug and potted floral arrangements nearby. The floral installation by Jessica Mader of Society Blooms was perfectly suited to the aesthetic. The artist’s book was propped on the sofa with a green and white throw that perfectly matched the book’s subject’s striped pants lay casually draped beside it. After posing for a quick souvenir shot, I made a beeline even further inside to Annenberg Court, where guests would belly up to plentiful bar stations to further mingle and nibble in spacious areas scattered with cocktail tables and sectional sofas. Later, invitees retreated to a more formal dinner reception location. And everywhere, Roni Nicole Henderson-Day‘s film installation blazed a spectacular multimedia show projected onto area walls. Yet another massive courtyard space filled with luxe sofa sectionals was complemented by a blazing fireplace–perfect for the lovely fall evening.
As the evening progressed while guests continually streamed in, gorgeous appetizers made an appearance. There were heaping mounds of delectably seasoned shrimp. The Scallop Ceviche with Citrus Marmalade served in individual glass bowls was refreshing and made richer with a firm rice blend. A Tuna Poke (a main dish of Native Hawaiian cuisine) featured sesame sriracha, pineapple, jicama and avocado; the creamy concoction ignited my taste buds. Mindful of an awaiting main course and sweet-treat finale, I adopted portion-control care when assembling my tidbits’ platter from the tapas seafood station. Photographing the platter near an illuminative candle holder, the scene was almost too pretty to disturb by eating, yet I somehow managed to do just that.
While plenty sated from both oysters and tapas bites, there was no way I would forego a steak and salad entree. A salad of mixed greens contained blue cheese, bacon and tomatoes; it was crisp and freshly tossed with a buttermilk chive vinaigrette. The main course included a petit filet in truffle butter with chunky pieces of the protein powerhouses so velvety tender that an angled fork made for adroit slicing. Duck Fat Confit, Red Bliss Potatoes and Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa rounded out the moveable feast. Ample offerings of dessert fare abounded, including moist, icing-laden goodies and buttery, flaky tassies filled with a nutty-fruity medley. Menu and catering were provided by Constellation Culinary Group with chef Anita Hirsch at the epicurean helm.
As dinner concluded, activity progressed to the entertainment stage, where guests were treated to “World Beats,” aural artistry by deejays Oluwafemi and Aura. According to the event brochure, the duo entertained with a “carefully curated mix of music from the African diaspora with signature blends that transcend genre and time, sculpting soundspaces with music based in the drum.” That’s a mouthful describing the enjoyable aural earful. Advertised as a “surprise performance,” the inimitable talent that is Philadelphia-based jazz vocalist Laurin Talese captivated her audience with a voice that the Philadelphia Inquirer once described as a “Christmas morning.” The composer, vocalist and recording artist’s musical genres include jazz, traditional pop and soul.
Before entering Roberts Gallery for the art exhibition’s sneak peek, I did my usual gift-shop crawl (as I refer to a habit walking through museum shops prior to exhibit viewings). It’s my way of getting an overall sense of what awaits me. I clock the fridge magnets and other items such as books, postcards, scarves–anything emblazoned with works by whatever artist is being featured. Enlightened by my crawl, I meandered through the gallery, absolutely floored by the exceptional artworks on display in this, the “first exhibition dedicated to Valadon at a major US arts institution.” In the event brochure, she is described as, “confrontational and witty,” while her works “tackle themes that remain provocative today: female desire, the conflicts of marriage and motherhood, and a woman’s experience of her own physicality.”
Having no previous knowledge of Valadon, I was not yet altogether aware that my first exposure was actually to a kindred spirit of sorts. It would be several days before I realized my experience that evening was transcendent. Wonderful as the upscale eats and drinks, entertainment and glitz that one associates with a posh evening out had been, it was Valadon’s life, work, art and philosophy that had taken a transformative hold within my creative self’s soul. Moving among the crowd, chatting up guests, photographing whatever caught my eye while enjoying and immersing myself in the party scene were all part of my assignment as a writer and photographer. That I was in the presence of great works that would resonate and impact me deeply wasn’t on my radar until after-the-fact.
For the record, the following quote sums up quite well what I feel is art as awakening. To wit: “Eleanor was right. She never looked nice. She looked like art, and art wasn’t supposed to look nice; it was supposed to make you feel something.” – Rainbow Rowell
Oh, I felt something, alright. Time will tell how my feelings shake out and where my path leads after having “met” this vital, energetic and uncompromising woman. Maybe take a page from Valadon’s playbook and dial back girlie artifice in favor of some “unflinching representation” and reveal rather than conceal in either clodhoppers or heels. It’s my prerogative, my choice, n’est-ce pas, Suzanne?
To learn about current exhibitions and more, visit the website at barnesfoundation.org.
Check-in area features mural with a message. We could certainly do with more inspiration.
Rides enter valet parking area. Navigating those cobblestones (after having lived jammies-stylin’ during pandemic years) was a dicey prospect, indeed.
VIP early-entry ticketholders arrive.
Guests pass through a champagne flute-stacked portal, then pause for a pour. At left is a portion of Kelly’s Sculpture, the towering 40-foot stainless steel “welcome sign,” known as The Barnes Totem.
Champagne flutes are uniformly arranged on installations positioned like opening doors.
I’ve seen models parading in hooped “skirts” fashioned to hold bubbly flutes, but this verdant outdoor station was an inventive first for me.
The Barnes Foundation building (made of limestone and designed by New York architects Tod Williams and Billie Tsien) on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is mirrored in its adjacent reflecting pool.
Early arrivers meet and mingle along Neubauer Plaza.
Bubbly bottles are bathed in ice and ready to be uncorked. Commence fizzy-fun!
What becomes a sparkling Prosecco most? Surely these succulent oysters (bivalves of the Gods) excel as light bites.
Guests enjoy a picturesque autumnal evening as they sip champagne and indulge in tasty edibles.
This dapper duo pose relaxed and contented in smart-looking suits.
Who is Jen Su wearing? None other than a Conrad Booker original. Booker is a Philadelphia-based designer, who also fitted her feet in these innovative dragon-headed shoes.
“But That Dress” as photographed from the back, the better to view its cascading train. Designer Conrad Booker gets inspiration from every day materials such the medical tape and gauze which informs most of this singular creation.
Masked man collects empty champagne flutes as guests prepare to head inside.
The Philadelphia School of Circus Arts thrilled the crowd with performances of “Ambient Aerial Artistry.”
Beauty and poetry in motion.
The miracle of the human body in motion captivated guests.
Can you spot the many instances of verticality in this shot?
Elegance and poise are demonstrated by this performer.
Split perfection. No doubt Suzanne Valadon herself would have been entranced and inspired by such performances.
I never did care for conventional gyms. Maybe try a new work-out?!
Over-the-top athleticism and poise are evident here. Imagine the glorious feeling to be “Free Fallin'” while still secured.
I was transfixed by this installation of light-capturing and reflecting strands.
Sharon Kozden poses just inside the main entrance at the salon-like setting staged for photo-ops.
It’s all in the details: draped throw perfectly matches this book cover subject’s lounging slacks.
As an English major, not much strikes my decor fancy more than a towering wall of books. I’d replicate this at home were it not for two cats and a puppy.
With my VIP ticket, I arrived before throngs of guests descended and snapped plenty of shots of the event organizers’ handiwork, including one of many bar set-ups. Servers stand ready to pour.
Whatever whetted one’s whistle was available for the asking.
These partygoers’ sartorial choices run the style-wise gamut, and they all look fabulous!
Glowing candles add warmth to this cool contemporary seating arrangement ready for the incoming crowds. Above, Roni Nicole Henderson-Day’s multimedia art streams.
Mixing and mingling for a cause and because we’ve really missed doing so.
Behold this artfully arranged space for incoming guests about to enter a lush, inviting setting.
Attendees begin to claim their socializing spots.
Sectional sofas provide comfy seating options.
This couple enjoyed their time seated near the fireplace at dusk.
This duo was one of the first to have a fireside chat at dusk on a lovely autumn day.
The warm glow of a fire, faux or real and in- or outdoors, has such sensual and inviting appeal.
These folks mentioned that they’re new to the Philadelphia area. Welcome!
One of the many topics ladies discussed was the challenge in returning to form (particularly heels!) at social events.
It wasn’t surprising to find some very unique fashion statements at a ball devoted to the arts.
A contrast in chic black and hot pink is a winning combo!
Check out this stunning setting for the musical entertainers’ performance. Tres elegant.
Guests were treated to the aural artistry of deejays Oluwafemi and Aura’s “World Beats.”
If I had been wearing socks, they would’ve been knocked off by the inimitable talent of Philadelphia-based jazz vocalist Laurin Talese.
Simply stated, Laurin Talese is a vocal and musical powerhouse.
Composer, vocalist and recording artist Talese’s musical genres include jazz, traditional pop and soul.
Lookin’ sharp, gentlemen!
Aren King and Joseph Eisenstein honor my photo-op request.
This event did not lack for open bar set-ups, which is an important consideration. Few fancy waiting in lengthy lines.
These crustaceans were jumbo, flavorful and delicious.
The Scallop Ceviche with Citrus Marinade was … in a word … superb!
The Tuna Poke featured sesame sriracha, pineapple, jicama and avocado.
I fixed myself a just-right portion from the tapas seafood station’s delights.
Mixed greens, featuring blue cheese, bacon and tomatoes, are tossed with a buttermilk chive vinaigrette.
Velvety-tender pieces of petit filet in truffle butter are protein powerhouses.
In addition to the filet, my platter included Duck Fat Confit Red Bliss Potatoes and Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Quinoa.
Ample offerings of sweet treats abounded, including this moist and nutty finger-licking delectable.
Buttery pastry cups hold a nutty-fruity combo inside flaky tassies.
On a restroom run, I discovered the gift shop on the lower level and peeped the merch.
Valadon’s use of color and brush strokes intrigues.
A gift shop crawl had me primed to enter the actual exhibition site.
This lovely woman stationed at the exhibition room’s entrance graciously directed guests.
Divorce. Marriage. Struggle. War. Alcoholism. Separation. As a cineaste who favors films that explore “what it means to be human,” this plaque’s description all but guaranteed Valadon’s work would resonate personally.
Guests appreciate and enjoy the exhibit’s after-hours’ entry.
From Left, Sharon Kozden and Jen Su meet in the exhibition room.
Everything about this particular couple as photographed before one of Valadon’s works fascinates me. While viewers see the standing woman fully clothed, the painting’s subject reveals all.
Long before Kate Moss was proclaiming nothing tastes as good as skinny feels, there was Suzanne Valadon boldly displaying beauty in all shapes, sizes and dimensions.
The human body is a masterful work of art and should be celebrated as such.
This painting provides a momentary glimpse into family life as captured and interpreted by Valadon.
The artist paints the unvarnished truth.
It’s a wrap–and a crinkly one at that. Sweet truffle bon-bon treats await guests on exit. Thank you for having us in 2021, and here’s to a successful repeat in 2022!
