“Never before have we seen so many good-looking people and now New York is our favourite city!” chanted Gilbert and George in unison in their signature matching tweed suits after being bestowed the honor of the night at the New Museum Gala last Wednesday. Exclaimed with the poignancy of a manifesto, the phrase aptly summarized the evening and drew enthused cheers from the pleased audience.

The NY art establishment ferried below Canal Street for the annual fete held at 7 World Trade Centre. Ascending to the 45th floor in an elevator, John Currin and his wife passed a turquoise-clad Rose McGowan as the doors opened.  Perched up high, with a panoramic view of which offered a glimpse into the Freedom Tower – artists, collectors and scenesters alike gathered in supporters of the New Museum to toast another successful year. Along with the British duo, the evening’s guests included art-stars Jeff Koons, Urs Fisher and George Condo who reciprocated their allegiance to the museum – along with Terence Koh, Alex Katz and the mega-collector Dakis Joannou.

As 10 o’clock neared, the more sober-minded guests headed home while younger patrons were greeted by mixoligists of Death & Co for the Gala Afterparty.  Held in the adjacent room, the exposed space was drenched by floor-to-ceiling Swarovski, complemented by soft pink cherry blossom bouquets and a length of red carpet which stretched the entire space.  The guests matched the lavish décor and fashion darlings Dree Hemingway and Charlotte Ronson were spotted consorting next to the city’s gallerists while Alexandra Richards (Keith Richard’s daughter) DJed the party. The staff of New Museum celebrated having raised well over a million dollars in one night. That inspired an enthusiastic toast by Associate Director Massimiliano Gioni. And it made Director of External Affairs Karen Wong toss her shoes aside to take center stage on the dance floor.