Last Saturday, there was only one place you could find Chloë Sevigny, Harmony Korine, and Rita Ackermann chatting over drinks. This year’s Swiss Institute Benefit Gala brought together an eclectic mix of artists, patrons, and cultural visionaries in support of the nonprofit’s mission to foster innovative and experimental work.
Rooted in Swiss culture but global in reach, the Institute is renowned for its boundary-pushing exhibitions, focus on education, and dedication to emerging perspectives. This year’s honorees—each a testament in their own way to the Swiss Institute's diverse offerings—received tributes for their enduring impact and bold visions.
Ackermann and Korine were both honored with the SI Special Tribute, celebrating their fearless approaches to visual narratives. Honoree Susanne von Meiss was celebrated for her role in advancing global art dialogues, while the SI Artist Tribute went to Tschabalala Self, whose "Bodega Run" installation took over the institution this past January. The SI Visionary Award honored the Fundación Almine y Bernard Ruiz-Picasso para el Arte for its commitment to preserving artistic legacy and supporting emerging voices. And to close the evening, Free Arts NYC received the SI Community Tribute, celebrating its efforts to empower underrepresented youth through art literacy and outreach.
Swiss Institute devotees, including Sevigny, musician Eartheater, stylist Tina Leung, auctioneer and curator Simon de Pury, architect Anabelle Selldorf, and artists Adam Pendleton, Nate Lowman, Alvaro Barrington, Cajsa von Zeipel, Chloe Wise, and Camille Henrot all turned out to show their commitment to the East Village institution—and the local and global ecosystems it empowers.
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