The Bass Ball: A Kaleidoscopic Night of Art, Fashion and Fun

Posted by Mary Jo Almeida-Shore On February - 11 - 2026

Photo credit: World Red Eye

The Bass proved once again why its annual gala is among the most anticipated dates on the Miami art/social calendar. The Bass Ball: Kaleidoscopic brought out artists, fashion-forward philanthropists, socialites, and party people to honor the fabulous Cathy Vedovi—the collector and designer whose French roots and LA education have made her a true icon in our local arts scene.

Photo credit: World Red Eye
Photo credit: World Red Eye

The theme was “Kaleidoscopic,” inspired by the museum’s exhibition The Kaleidoscopic: Writing Histories Through the Collection. The evening reflected the multifaceted nature of storytelling through art, welcoming artists and art lovers into a richly layered visual experience. This wasn’t your average black-tie affair; the guests took the theme to heart with outfits that were pure creative genius. Everywhere you looked, there were bold prints, shimmering textures, and over the top accessories that turned the museum into a living, breathing art gallery.

Silvia Karman Cubina, Cathy Vedovi, Paul & Trudy Cejas & Paolo Vedovi
Cathy Vedovi, Mera Rubell & Trudy Cejas
Cathy Leff & Angie Ferrer

Guests were immersed in lavish décor by Alejandro Muguerza, complemented by a dynamic lighting installation by artist MIKIHUMO that illuminated the museum’s façade and interior. Dinner by Le Basque was top-tier, as usual, but it was the outstanding music that really set the night apart. Things kicked off with smooth jazz by saxophonist Manuel Echazabal in the Social Assembly Lounge, giving everyone a chance to catch up in style.

Evelio Gomez, Keith Pomeroy; Lorena Gomez, Carlos Betancourt, José Díaz, Alberto Latorre & Cristina Lei Rodriguez
Evian Kudnik, Paola Martínez & Samantha Díaz
Alberto Latorre, Mary Jo Shore, Carlos Betancourt & Sofía Citarella
DJ ClaudioF

But even before the dinner plates were cleared, the vibe shifted into high gear. The museum lobby transformed into the ultimate energetic dance party thanks to @DJCLAUDIOF aka Claudio Figueroa, the man behind the vibe at Casa Tua. He was on fire, spinning every genre imaginable—from global house beats to crowd-favorite anthems.

Sofía Citarella & Mary Jo Shore

The music was so good it kept the gorgeous, fashion-focused crowd glued to the dance floor, keeping the energy electric well into the early morning hours. Let’s just say no one was ready to go once the “lights came on.”

Caitlin Collins & Ariel Penzer Milgroom
Dr. Mary Jo and Michael Shore in the Mirror Photo Booth by InstaMirrorPhoto

All of the glam and fun supports a worthy cause, with proceeds going directly to the museum’s education programs and world-class exhibitions. Be sure to keep up with all of the happenings at the Bass on Instagram @thebassmoa and online at https://thebass.org.

Photos

Courtesy of the Bass Museum and World Red Eye.

Don’t Miss: The Bass Ball, Crash The Fire Kitchen, and SOBEWFF 2016!

Posted by Maryanne Salvat On February - 17 - 2016

bass-museum-web-headerBass Ball

Experience the art, the fun and glamour this Saturday, February 20 at The Bass Ball fundraiser with keep The Ball rolling…, an upbeat after party to benefit the Bass Museum of Art. The evening begins at 9:00 p.m. with a sensational performance by South African artist Athi-Patra Ruga. Experience for yourself why Ruga has captivated the art world with his portrayal of a vivid utopia told through fantastic costumes and sensuous choreography. Enjoy the thrill of a contemporary art auction with original works by Daniel Arsham, Tracey Emin and Paola Pivi and more. Dress code for the evening is Whimsical Black Tie. Prizes will be awarded for the Most Creative, Most Outlandish, Best Couple and Most Elegant. Complimentary valet parking is included. Purchase tickets at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/keep-the-ball-rolling-tickets-19966773156?aff=eac2.

 

Crash the Fire Kitchen – Carnivores Only!

Crash the Fire Kitchen – Carnivores Only!, a not to be missed chef collaboration between Francis Mallmann of Los Fuegos, Paul Qui of Pao by Paul Qui at The Dome and Gabriel Ask, Executive Chef of Faena Hotel Miami Beach.  Offering a special menu available, to the public for one night only at Los Fuegos at Faena Hotel Miami Beach on Wednesday, February 24th.  The price is $195 per person with seating starting 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm.  Reservations can be booked by calling Los Fuegos at 786.655.5600.

 

SOBEWFF 2016

The Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival presented by FOOD & WINE (SOBEWFF®) is celebrating its 15th anniversary February 24 – 28, 2016, and continues to expand upon upgrades to its signature Miami Beach event.  The Festival’s signature white tents are home to the Goya Foods Grand Tasting Village featuring MasterCard Grand Tasting Tents & KitchenAid® Culinary Demonstrations taking place Saturday, February 27 and Sunday, February 28, and are flanked by the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the iconic Art Deco cityscape spanning between 10th Street & 13th Street on Ocean Drive. Tickets for this event, and many more, are available online at sobefest.com or by calling 877.762.3933.