On a night steeped in both ancient mythos and forward-thinking patronage, guests gathered at the Metropolitan Museum of Art for the 2026 Vanguard Council dinner, which celebrates the institution youngest patrons. Between a Chinese-inflected feast and warm remarks from the council’s leadership, tastemakers and innovators alike discussed the next chapter of the Met.
The Scene: Bathed in honeyed light emanating from the temple, the room took on a cinematic tone for its well-coiffed coterie—conversations echoing against the ancient artifacts.
Food & Drink: Sat with a menu developed by James Beard Award-nominated wine bar Lei, guests began their evening by trying a wintergreen salad featuring preserved kumquats, followed by a sweet and sour beef short rib. The night closed with a mango sago (mousse).
The Crowd: A cross-section of New York’s cultural vanguard, including Met CEO Max Hollein, Vanguard Council co-chair Arielle Patrick, advisor Emma Lasry, dealer Lucas Zwirner, entrepreneur Alexandra Mack, patron Laila Blavatnik, the Cultivist’s Zoe Weingarten, designer Isabel Wilkinson Schor, and editor Mary Julia Koch.
What You Missed: Opening remarks from the Met’s Chief Development Officer for Individual Giving Hannah Howe set the tone of the evening, focused on forward motion for the group. Patrick followed with reflections on how young patrons can play an integral part in shaping the museum’s future.
Parting Gift: As the revelry drew to a close, guests departed back into the Uptown air with Vanguard’s newest tote bags in hand slung over their shoulders.
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