The Wolfsonian-FIU hosted “The Arts of Seduction,” a gala benefit during Art Basel. Guests joined legendary Isabella Rossellini and Margrit Mondavi at the museum for an intimate dinner by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten and the rare wines of Robert Mondavi Winery. There was as a silent auction that offered various vintage wines from Robert Mondavi Winery, a special bag designed by Rossellini for Bvlgari and a Bvlgari men’s watch.
The Wolfsonian was delighted to partner with Bulgari, the Italian luxury brand known for its exceptional jewels, watches, accessories, fragrances and hotels. Isabella Rosellini has commented, “My connection with Bulgari dates back to when I was a child and I’d accompany my mother to the historic shop in Via Condotti in Rome. She loved Bulgari jewels; I remember the ones she bought very clearly. Still today, when I’m traveling and I come across a Bulgari store, I feel a pleasant sense of familiarity that makes me feel close to the beauty and subtlety of Italian culture, of my own roots.” This year, Isabella collaborated with Bulgari to create the Rossellini Handbag, a handbag distinguished by simple, essential lines that reflects the beauty and rigor of its muse. Bulgari’s generous support of the Wolfsonian event honoring Rossellini further celebrates the brand’s connection to her.
Cathy Leff, director of The Wolfsonian noted, “I am so thrilled and honored that the illustrious chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten accepted our invitation to prepare an extraordinary meal for the occasion and that Margrit Mondavi will represent Robert Mondavi Winery—enabling the museum not only to celebrate our collaboration with Isabella Rossellini, but also to showcase the culinary arts and seduce the international crowd that will descend on Miami Beach this year. Further, our partnership with Bulgari enhances our relationship with Italian design and ensures a most stylish evening.”
Guests included Wolfsonian Founder Mitchell Wolfson Jr., President of FIU Mark B. Rosenberg, Veronica Bulgari, Wolfsonian Advisory Board Chair Michael Kreitzer, Wolfsonian Advisory board members: Peter L. Corsell, Neil and Kira Flanzraich, Iran Issa-Khan, Gary Wasserman, Jeri L. Waxenberg and Wolfson, Louis Wolfson III, as well as Marvin Ross Friedman, Adrienne Bon Haes, Baudouin Croonenberghs, Ambassador Steven and Dorothea Green, R. Kirk Landon, Pamela Garrison, Leonard and Jayne Abess, Jonathan and Criselda Breene, Michael Breene, Dan and Jan Lewis, Alvaro Martinez-Fonts, William and Ann Nitze, Chad and Ilona Oppenheim, Tui Pranich, Adam Rose, and Walid and Susie Wahab.
