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The Art Salon, a dynamic initiative presented by The Art of Elysium Charity, served as a captivating platform where artists, philanthropists, thought leaders, and prominent brands seamlessly merged in an enthralling fusion of art and philanthropy. Recently, The Art Salon hosted a remarkable event, a night to honor the accomplished visual artist Sébastien Léon.
This captivating gathering took place on July 12th, 2023, in the heart of Los Angeles, California, bringing together art enthusiasts, philanthropists, and notable individuals for an evening that left a lasting impact.
Established by the visionary Jennifer Howell, The Art of Elysium stands tall as a renowned charitable organization with a steadfast commitment to unleashing the transformative power of the arts upon communities and individuals in need. Their extensive range of initiatives encompasses over 100 programs per month, uplifting the lives of an astonishing 300,000 people annually. From delivering music to children in hospitals to offering artistic experiences to those in hospice care, their work encompasses a comprehensive spectrum that infuses joy and healing through the arts.
Sébastien Léon, a dedicated volunteer for The Art of Elysium, has made an indelible mark through his artistic contributions. Hailing from France, Léon has planted his creative roots in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, garnering recognition for his exploratory and thought-provoking artistic endeavors. His ability to merge diverse artistic techniques, including painting, sculpture, and installations, results in immersive experiences that captivate audiences. Léon’s work delves into profound themes such as identity, memory, and the intricacies of the human condition, offering viewers a distinctive perspective on life’s complexities.
Promptly at seven o’clock, guests arrived to be greeted by a radiant neon sign that spelled “Heaven,” paying homage to the charity’s iconic event and drawing a parallel to its celestial essence. Exuding elegance, the attendees, representing diverse backgrounds and industries, converged with a shared love for the arts and a resolute dedication to the charity’s mission.
During the cocktail hour, guests were treated to a delectable assortment of fondue, charcuterie, and a meticulously curated selection of fine wines and champagnes generously provided by Terra Firma. In a tribute to Léon’s French heritage, the signature French 75 cocktails were served, adding an elegant touch to the evening’s ambiance.
The pinnacle of the event arrived with the unveiling of Léon’s exclusive limited edition print, aptly named “The Dream Machine.” Limited to just 100 sets, this highly sought-after piece offered attendees the opportunity to acquire a captivating fragment of Léon’s beguiling artwork, priced at a modest $100.00 per print. Art enthusiasts eager to possess a tangible piece of Léon’s captivating vision may secure their acquisition through the charity’s website, ensuring a lasting connection to the artist’s mesmerizing oeuvre.
Enchanting melodies filled the air as the acclaimed artist Claude Fontaine took center stage, accompanied by the talented guitarist Kleber Jorge. Their mesmerizing three-song set bewitched the captivated audience during the cocktail hour, creating an atmosphere steeped in artistic appreciation.
Following the musical interlude, guests were escorted to the refined environs of the Restoration Hardware art salon, where they indulged in a delightful French dinner prepared by esteemed chefs Damien Sylvester and Quinn Goodness, alongside the skilled team from Catering of Paris. The meticulously curated menu showcased three savory crepes, including tantalizing vegan options, followed by an irresistible dessert crepe and a vibrant selection of French salads that awakened the palate with an explosion of flavors.
A highlight of the evening was when Maureen Lee Consilvio, Development Director, and CEO & Founder Jennifer Howell delivered insightful speeches, shedding light on The Art of Elysium’s overarching mission and the profound transformative power of art in the healing process. The speeches were followed by a captivating Q&A session featuring Sébastien Léon and Arts of Elysium Founder Jennifer Howell, delving into the artist’s creative process and its profound connection to the inspiring #artheals movement.
Notable guests graced the event, including the guest of honor, Sébastien Léon, the melodious songstress Claude Fontaine, the multi-talented Alicia Witt, the charismatic Christina Hendricks from the renowned series “Mad Men,” the distinguished author Dr. Jay Wellons (Chief of the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Vanderbilt University), accompanied by his accomplished wife, Dr. Melissa Wellons. Joining the luminaries were the brilliant artist Melanie Pullen and the magnetic Charlayne Woodard, currently captivating audiences in “Secret Invasion” and “Mayfair Witches.” These esteemed figures from the realms of art and philanthropy added an extra layer of glamour to the star-studded affair.
The Art Salon’s resounding success in honoring Sébastien Léon brought together art enthusiasts, philanthropists, and talented individuals in a celebration of the profound transformative power of art. The event served as a poignant reminder that art has the remarkable ability to inspire healing and instigate positive change. This enchanting gathering left an indelible impression on all in attendance, etching the beauty of artistic enchantment deep into their souls.
