Institute of Modern Art’s Fourth Annual Gala Honours Richard Bell

In line with their mission to become Queensland’s leading independent forum for contemporary art, the Institute of Modern Art (IMA) is this year bringing some formidable names to the table for their fourth annual Winter Gala and Benefit Auction.

The theme of this year’s Gala – to be held on Friday 15 June – is gothic romance. The Institute will undergo a darkly romantic transformation for the occasion at the hands of fashion designer Gail Sorronda and artist Anastasia Booth, both of whom will also have works on sale as part of the Benefit Auction.

The auction is arguably the highlight of the annual Gala for its predominantly collector audience, and this year’s long-list of represented artists does not disappoint. Among the highlights will be a new work by political provocateur Tony Albert, whose participation in the IMA Gala will coincide with his major solo exhibition at QACOMA. A ceramic piece from Nicolette Johnson, made especially in honour of the 2018 Gala and its theme, will also be up for auction.

Other artists and designers to feature in the IMA Fourth Annual Gala include Paul Bai, James Barth, Naomi Blacklock, Hannah Brontë, Elisa Jane Carmichael, Paula Dunlop, Léuli Luna’i Eshraghi, Chantal Fraser, Bridie Gillman, Charlie Hillhouse, Ross Manning, Callum McGrath, Carol McGregor, Sebastian Moody, Christie Nicolaides, Michael Phillips, Judy Watson and Elizabeth Willing.

This year’s Gala will be thrown in honour of Richard Bell, one of Australia’s most prolific artists and activists with a focus on debates around identity, race, place and politics. Tickets are available for purchase from ima.org.au/fourth-annual-gala

Image: Institute of Modern Art, Winter Gala, 2016, Photo: Savannah Van Der Neit