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2009 Art Ball at DAI shimmers, dazzles

Photos: Shimmering Madness Ball

Staff photo by Ron Alvey Lori Post (left), Leslie Brown and Maha Kashani strike a pose during the ball.

By Alexis Larsen, Staff Writer Updated 6:28 PM Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Lustrous butterflies and bright jellybeans made for a theme of “Shimmering Madness” at this year’s Dayton Art Institute Art Ball that took place June 13 at the museum.

Inspired by a large-scale installation of the same name on permanent display in the museum by American artist Sandy Skoglund, the annual black-tie gala brought out bold, beautiful gowns inspired by the eye-popping artwork — created from jelly beans and hand-painted butterflies that flutter when viewers approach.

Proceeds from the 52nd annual event, one of the most elegant evenings that the Miami Valley has to offer, are going to complete the restoration of Alfred Jenson’s geometric painting entitled “Madonna & Child” (1958).

More than 700 guests turned out in their best dress to enjoy cocktails and dinner throughout the museum’s galleries with priceless works of art looking on. Afterward couples meandered throughout the museum, stopping in various rooms to enjoy dancing, live jazz and gambling.

“Thanks to the hard work of The Dayton Art Institute’s Associate Board, the 52nd Art Ball was a wonderful success. We are thrilled to report that we had 740 attendees, exceeding last year’s number — a great testament to the Dayton community and the support we continue to receive from so many individuals and area corporations,” said Janice Driesbach, the museum’s director and CEO.

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