On
Thursday, January 29, 2009, the iconic modern artist, Jeff Koons,
was presented the prestigious Gold Medal of Honor at a dinner held
in his honor at The National Arts Club in New York City. The historic
venue, located in Manhattan's Gramercy Park, was at full capacity
as members and fans of Koons tried to get a glimpse or photo with
the humbled artist during the evening's cocktail hour.
Once guests were finally seated, Aldon James, president of the Arts
Club welcomed guests and presented Koons the award.
Amongst the crowd were fellow artists James Turrell and Roberto
Dutesco along with esteemed artist and National Arts Club member,
Will Barnet. Also in attendance were Susan Shatter, president of
the National Academy Museum and School of Fine Arts, portrait artist,
Raymond Kinsler and Marc Mellon, esteemed sculptor. NYC socialites,
Andrew and Andrew, mingled with guests in their signature matching
attire and Diane Bernhard, chair of the NAC's Visual Arts Program
posed for an endless amount of photos before giving her speech about
choosing Koons as this year's honoree.
Jeffrey Deitch, the evening's guest speaker, took the audience
on a journey through Jeff's career by sharing personal photos
from the Koons family album and images of the artist's most
famous works. Deitch poked fun at Koons' role in the recent
film, “Milk,” in saying that if Koons was to run for
office in real life, his slogan would be “embrace your past,” which
is just what Koons did in building his artistic career.
During his acceptance speech, Jeff Koons focused on what he believes
to be the most important message that art has to offer. That “art
is all about transcendence; it is about the self.” Koons concluded
his humbled acceptance speech by thanking the National Arts Club
and expressing his hope to become a member soon. “I couldn't
be at a purer place than right now, right here at The National Arts
Club with all of these people. I am so happy that I want to become
a member.”
Run by volunteers, The National Arts Club was founded by New
York Times literary and art critic, Charles de Kay in 1898
with the mission to stimulate, foster and promote public interest
in the arts and educate the American people in the fine arts. A
historic staple in Gramercy Park, the Arts Club is located in the
Tilden Mansion which was built in the 1840's. Today, The
National Arts Club hosts art unveilings, award dinners, film screenings,
lectures, dances and many more various types of art performances.
In order to help recognize untapped talents, the Arts Club's
committeesfrequently award scholarships to young artists, writers
and singers to help them develop their talent and work towards
their dreams.
