The December 9 FAMSF gala followed a sequence designed to maximize both celebration and fundraising impact. Guests arrived at the Legion of Honor’s Lincoln Park location for a private exhibition viewing before gathering in the transformed Court of Honor for dinner and dancing.
More than 220 guests attended the black-tie evening, which supports exhibition programming and educational initiatives at both the Legion of Honor and de Young museums. The event structure balanced artistic engagement with social celebration.
The Exhibition Preview
J-P Conte and guests toured “Manet & Morisot” before dinner. Emily Beeny, Chief Curator of the Legion of Honor and the Barbara A. Wolfe Curator-in-Charge of European Paintings, provided curatorial context for works exploring the artistic relationship between two French Impressionist masters.
The exhibition, running through March 1, 2026, marks the first major show dedicated to the Manet-Morisot relationship. Works from international collections document their mutual influence during a period of creative experimentation in 19th-century France.
Dinner in the Court of Honor
J. Riccardo Benavides and IDEAS Events & Rentals transformed the tented space into a burgundy-and-gold holiday setting. Caviar from The Caviar Co. preceded a multi-course dinner prepared by McCalls Catering & Events.
Honorary Chair Diane Wilsey presided alongside gala co-chairs including FAMSF Board President Lorna Meyer Calas. The seated dinner provided opportunities for conversation among trustees, supporters, and guests united by commitment to museum programming.
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Dancing with The Bob Hardwick Sound
The Bob Hardwick Sound Sensation, a big band ensemble flown from New York City for the evening, provided entertainment following dinner. The group performed musical standards spanning swing, Latin, and popular music as guests transitioned to the dance floor.
J-P Conte joined guests celebrating beneath the transformed courtyard’s holiday décor. Proceeds from the evening support FAMSF’s mission to connect visitors with art through inclusive programming reaching Bay Area communities and beyond.