By Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, CA (The Hollywood Times) 1/27/26 – WOW doesn’t even begin to cover it. Art Party 2026 at the Palm Springs Art Museum was nothing short of spectacular, an electrifying night where glamour, creativity, and community came together in full force to honor the legendary Bob Mackie.
Bob Mackie, Carol Burnett, and Christine Vendredi, JoAnn McGrath Executive Director. (Photo: Lani)
From the moment guests arrived, the evening radiated Palm Springs style: bold fashion, vibrant energy, and a shared love for art and design. Honoring Bob Mackie, whose visionary career has shaped generations of costume, fashion, and pop culture, felt especially fitting in a city that celebrates fearless creativity and iconic individuality. The celebration was as dazzling as its honoree, and the crowd delivered the kind of enthusiasm that turns a gala into a true moment.
Adding to the evening’s star power, the celebration was also attended by the incomparable Carol Burnett, whose presence underscored the night’s deep connection to entertainment history, creativity, and the timeless artistry being honored.
Art Party may be the museum’s most visible night of the year, but its impact reaches far beyond one unforgettable evening. Funds raised support exhibitions, educational initiatives, and programs that inspire, educate, and connect audiences of all ages, ensuring the museum remains a dynamic cultural anchor for the Coachella Valley and beyond.
The success of Art Party 2026 was made possible by extraordinary leadership and generosity. Deep gratitude goes to Presenting Sponsors Steven Brown and Richard Cain, Co-Chairs Jonathan Murray and Harvey Reese, and the many sponsors at every level whose commitment reflects a shared belief in the power of art. Together with every guest in attendance, they helped create an evening that was both joyful and meaningful.
As the music faded and the last glasses clinked, one thing was clear: this wasn’t just a party, it was a celebration of what’s possible when a community rallies around art, vision, and legacy. Art Party 2026 didn’t just honor Bob Mackie; it reaffirmed the museum’s role as a place where creativity lives, evolves, and brings people together.
The evening was further strengthened by the support of a wide range of cultural and media partners, including The Hollywood Times / Milano Foundation, proud Silver Sponsors of Art Party 2026. Their continued commitment to arts coverage, philanthropy, and community engagement reflects the collaborative spirit that helps keep Palm Springs Art Museum vibrant, visible, and deeply connected to the community it serves.
Inspired to give? Every contribution helps keep the museum vibrant, relevant, and accessible for years to come.
With appreciation and gratitude,
Christine Vendredi
JoAnn McGrath, Executive Director & Chief Curator
Craig Hartzman, Chair, Board of Trustees
MarJon Hudson, Director of Development
Art Party 2026 proved once again: Palm Springs knows how to celebrate art, boldly, beautifully, and together.
