Beaux Arts celebrates 54th gala

(CLICK TO VIEW ENHANCED IMAGES by Manny Hernandez for MHPIXS.com)
The Beaux Arts ball celebrated its 54th gala with a theme of "Come As You Are" at the elegant Mandarin Oriental Miami. Silent Auction and dinner followed the hourlong pre-reception with martinis served from walking table servers. Event chair Marlen Pernetti, gathered many contributers among them Michelle Beauchamp, Donna Abodd, Joe Fadel, Julia Berg, Bradon Moll, Diana Moll. Brian Dursum, Director of the Beaux Arts at University of Miami, Angelique LaPier, Loretta Nuenez, Daisy Olivera with husband Bernard Garsen, Audria Hanley, Dan and Tina Carlo, Nicole Lozano Ana Varela, Alvaro Varela and Raphael Bastain, President of the Beaux Arts. Bunny Bastain donated $25,000 to this evenings extravagant event.
The Beaux Arts Ball was instituted in 1953 as a major fund-raising activity, and holds the distinction of being the oldest costume ball in South Florida. Themes have vary widely, from Bal d'Erte to Phantom of the Opera to Monster Mash, and the creativity of costumes makes each year a unique experience. The 2005 ball's theme was "James Bond". Everyone showed up in true Bond style, the men in their finest tuxedos and the ladies in their best Bond girl attire from sexy lingerie to a full gold-painted body! This year's 'Come As You Are" gala some came in costume, while others in tuxedos and evening gowns.
Beaux Arts programs at the at the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami