Celebrating its second year, Palette to Palate, held on June 9, 2007, exceeded high expectations set by the event’s inaugural success in 2006. This exclusive evening at Laguna Art Museum featured the acclaimed cuisine of Chef James Boyce of Montage Laguna Beach, Lynmar Winery’s signature wines, and the awe-inspiring artwork of ten talented artists. Tickets were priced at $500.00 per person, and were offered exclusively to the Museum’s highest level donors. Montblanc South Coast Plaza donated exquisite engraved invitations which set the tone for a very special evening. In anticipation of this unique event, Palette to Palate was nearly sold out before the invitations were mailed.

Upon arrival at the Museum, guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and wine in the California Gallery while viewing some of the finest works from the Museum’s permanent collection. A live jazz duo played subtly in the background while wine was hand-passed to guests as they entered. The reception featured two elegant hors d’oeuvre buffets which offered a sumptuous variety of seafood, caviar, and fine cheeses. Starr Cornwall, Cheese Sommelier at the Montage, presented an array of domestic and imported cheeses and assisted guests with their selections.

Event chairman Elyse Caraco Miller signaled the end of the reception with a few words of welcome and thanks. Shortly after, the Steele Gallery doors were opened and guests were able to take their first look at the magnificent artwork created for this event. Each table reflected the artists’ unique vision, with artwork ranging from sculptures, paintings, ceramics, blown glass, and mobiles. Palates whet, guests took their seats as the Montage staff began their impeccable service, presenting the four course dinner prepared on site by Chef Boyce. At the beginning of each course, Hugh Chappelle, winemaker, and Lynn Fritz, owner, introduced the wine chosen as the perfect accompaniment. By dessert, many ofthe artists’ work had been sold. One of the highlights of the evening was alive auction of a dinner for ten people personally prepared by Chef Boyce in the home of the winner. After spirited bidding, Mr. and Mrs. Donald Carty emerged as the victors, with their winning bid of $12,000.

Palette to Palate netted $100,000.00 for Laguna Art Museum’s exhibition and education programs. Laguna Art Museum would like to thank this year’s attendees for their enthusiastic support of this event and strives for its continued success in Palette to Palate 2008.

Major contributors included Bon Appétit, Chef James Boyce; Lynmar Winery; Montage Laguna Beach; Montblanc South Coast Plaza; and Riviera Magazine. 

Palette to Palate 2008
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