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Art, music, and philanthropy merged in a dazzling display of creativity and compassion at The Art of Elysium’s Art Salon, where the talented visual artist Sébastien Léon took center stage. The soirée, held on a memorable evening in Los Angeles, brought together a vibrant mix of art enthusiasts, philanthropists, and notable personalities.
Under the visionary leadership of Jennifer Howell, The Art of Elysium has established itself as a prominent charitable organization committed to harnessing the transformative power of the arts. With a repertoire of over 100 monthly programs, this influential entity reaches an astounding 300,000 individuals each year, using music to uplift children in hospitals and delivering artistic experiences to those in hospice care, among many other endeavors that bring joy and healing through artistic expression.
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Sébastien Léon, an ardent volunteer for The Art of Elysium, has made an indelible mark with his mesmerizing artistic contributions. Originally from France and now based in Los Angeles, Léon has captivated audiences with his boundary-pushing and thought-provoking creations. By seamlessly combining various artistic techniques such as painting, sculpture, and installations, Léon creates immersive experiences that delve into profound themes of identity, memory, and the complexities of the human condition, leaving viewers with a fresh perspective on life.
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The event commenced at seven o’clock, with guests welcomed by a luminous neon sign that spelled “Heaven,” paying homage to the charity’s signature event and embodying its celestial aspirations. Dressed to impress, the attendees, hailing from diverse backgrounds and industries, united in their love for the arts and unwavering support for The Art of Elysium’s mission.
During the cocktail hour, guests were treated to a tantalizing assortment of fondue, charcuterie, and a carefully curated selection of fine wines and champagnes generously provided by Terra Firma. As a nod to Léon’s French heritage, the evening’s signature French 75 cocktails added a touch of elegance to the affair.
The highlight of the evening came with the unveiling of Léon’s exclusive limited edition print, aptly titled “The Dream Machine.” With only 100 sets available, attendees eagerly sought to acquire a piece of Léon’s enchanting artwork, each print priced at a modest $100.00. Art enthusiasts seeking to capture a tangible fragment of Léon’s captivating vision can secure their acquisition through the charity’s website, establishing a lasting connection to the artist’s mesmerizing oeuvre.
Enhancing the ambiance, the acclaimed artist Claude Fontaine took the stage, accompanied by the talented guitarist Kleber Jorge. Their captivating three-song set cast a spell over the captivated audience, enveloping them in a transcendent appreciation of artistic expression.
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Following the musical interlude, guests were escorted to the elegant Restoration Hardware art salon, where they indulged in a delightful French dinner meticulously crafted by esteemed chefs Damien Sylvester and Quinn Goodness, alongside the skilled team from Catering of Paris. The menu, a feast for the senses, showcased three savory crepes, including tantalizing vegan options, followed by an irresistible dessert crepe and a vibrant selection of French salads.
During the event, 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 paved the way for an engaging Q&A session featuring Sébastien Léon and Arts of Elysium Founder Jennifer Howell, offering a glimpse into the artist’s creative process and its profound connection to the inspiring #artheals movement.
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Among the distinguished guests were Sébastien Léon himself, the melodious singer Claude Fontaine, the multi-talented Alicia Witt, the charismatic Christina Hendricks of “Mad Men” fame, and the esteemed author Dr. Jay Wellons, Chief of the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Vanderbilt University, accompanied by his accomplished wife, Dr. Melissa Wellons. The luminaries also included the brilliant artist Melanie Pullen and the magnetic Charlayne Woodard, who currently captivates audiences in “Secret Invasion” and “Mayfair Witches.” These esteemed figures from the worlds of art and philanthropy added an extra touch of glamor to the star-studded affair.
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The success of The Art Salon in honoring Sébastien Léon underscores the transformative power of art, bringing together art enthusiasts, philanthropists, and talented individuals in a celebration of its profound impact. The event serves as a poignant reminder that art has the 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.
Presented by: Tom White
