By:  Mary Jo Almeida-Shore 

Cultural Collection at The James Royal Palm The James Royal Palm celebrated its official launch party along with the debut of Miami’s first-ever Cultural Collection on February 27, alongside marquee partners:  the New World Symphony (NWS), Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), National YoungArts Foundation (YoungArts) and Public Schoolfashion house, at a unique gathering, which brought these creative forces under one roof on the same night for the first time. More than 500 VIP influencers, socialites and philanthropists came together to experience the unveiling of their exclusive collaborative pieces for an unforgettable night dedicated to the arts. The collaboration united Miami’s cultural leaders to showcase this new approach to Miami hospitality. Stylish guests dodged an unseasonal drizzle while engaging in the multi-sensory experiences throughout the evening.  MOCA transformed The James Royal Palm’s South Shore bar into a private screening room, showcasing the best of its Optic Nerve series, and a special installation by the TM Sisters was projected along the ceiling of the lobby entrance and pool deck. The James’ ongoing collaboration with MOCA will feature access to special events hosted by the MOCA Leadership Circle, a dynamic network of international professionals and young collectors. YoungArts converted the Florida Cookery Patio into an exclusive lounge and showcased pop-up performances by some of the institution’s leading singers and hip-hop dancers, who entertained guests on the pool deck. YoungArts’ artists also presented a variety of commissioned uniform sketches of Public School designs, which hung on display in the breezeway. The James Royal Palm and YoungArts, a nonprofit organization that identifies and supports the next generation of American artists, will bring specialty projects and events to the hotel throughout the year. NWS featured three exclusive pop-up performances throughout the evening. America’s orchestral academy performed a carefully curated selection of works ranging from classical to contemporary pieces and interacted with the modern beats played by DJ Mia Moretti and Caitlin Moe. For this partnership, the New World Symphony has integrated its unique program elements into the guest experience at The James Royal Palm. Public School, New York City famed fashion house, lined the entrance of the breezeway with a runway of models showcasing The James Royal Palm’s signature and exclusive uniform designs. Notable guests at the party included:Bonnie Clearwater, Jorge Pantoja, Tracey Robertson Carter (MOCA); Stacey Glassman-Mizener, Nathalie Cadet-James (NWS); Dao-Yi Chow, Maxwell Osbourne (Public School); Paul T. Lehr, Lisa Leone Sarah Arison, Anthony Spinello (YoungArts); Nick D’Annunzio and Tara Solomon to name a few.

photo courtesy World Red Eye