Take Home a Nude
Archer 2015 Photographer: Lynda Churilla
THE SCENE
For more than two decades The New York Academy of Art (NYAA) and Sotheby's have produced "Take Home a Nude" which is a benefit that celebrates the art form of the human body.
Sotheby's has auctioned several of my images in the past - and I was honored to be invited back in 2017 by NYAA Chair Eileen Guggenheim and President David Kratz! It's thrilling to have my photographs featured along with other iconic paintings, sculptures, and prints at this gala!
This event is always a blast. It's a star studded affair with the likes of Naomi Watts, Mary-Kate Olsen, Lorne Michaels, and Andy Cohen to name a few. Royalty even put in an appearance this year: Princess Beatrice of York & Princess Alexandria of Greece!
Here's a peak into what went down at the Gala on October 11, 2017.
Sotheby's auction: Archer Photographer: Lynda Churilla
ARCHER
The New York Academy of Art picked one of my favorite pieces, "Archer," for the auction. This image comes from my Adirondack series of nudes and scenics that were showcased at my solo 2016 Robin Rice Gallery exhibition.
And guess who my gala guest was?... John Walton - my muse & model for the "Archer!" Except he decided to wear clothes to the party!
APPROACH!
I have to say I had one of the biggest thrills of my life as I approached the glammed out Sotheby's headquarters. As I went to swing open the door, I saw the Archer plastered across all the lobby marquee screens!
I almost lost it! As an artist, it was a dream come true to have my work featured at this iconic auction house. I had to take a photo to immortalize the moment.
THE PARTY
The party was spectacular!
I walked around sipping "Nudies," which was the signature cocktail for the evening, and checking out some amazing art. I even hung out with my old pal Brooke Shields who was madly bidding on several paintings.
I got caught up in the frenzy and starting bidding myself. I had my eye on a Susan Williams' gem from her Swimming at Night series (A gorgeous painting of a girl diving under water that would have looked amazing in my living room. However, someone swooped in at the last minute and robbed it away! (Note to self - ditch the cocktails three minutes before final bids and guard the art!).
Susan Williams, Swimming at Night Series Photographer: Lynda Churilla
WHAT A NIGHT!
I had so much fun - and it was a riot raising money for the New York Academy of Art. I can't wait for the party next year. Let's hope we can push the scholarship funding even higher in 2018!
SUBJECT & PHOTO
John Walton - Subject for the Archer Photographer: Lynda Churilla
MOMENTS FROM THE FESTIVITIES
