Matt Foss, director
Those of you that know me well probably know that I’m a casual guy. Hoodies, jeans, and sneakers comprise my ideal daily wardrobe. At home with a good book watching the ballgame, or on the water casting for fish remain preferred pastimes.
That is why friends and family remain miffed when they hear about my experiences at some of the world’s major art fairs or auction houses in my role as the Museum’s director. Make no mistake about it, the world of high-end art fairs, with the haute fashion, elaborate floral displays, roving oyster shuckers, and champagne toasts is not my wheelhouse.
I have a terrible confession though…I enjoy it.
I can’t explain why. Perhaps it’s the energy in the air, the abundance of beautiful art all around, or those fresh oysters, but it’s an environment that is like nothing else I have ever experienced.
Now, if a rube like me enjoys himself, there’s a good chance that many others would too.
That was a big reason Museum staff knew the first ever Collection Gala would be a hit for those in attendance. While we couldn’t replicate the size and scope of major art fairs or an event like the Met Gala, the event created by the Museum team in conjunction with Kase Styles was reminiscent of similar experiences that we could deliver for this community.
Between the handcrafted beverages, upscale dinner, exquisite surroundings, and of course, the three outstanding works of art, one of which, Emile Gruppe’s Bass Rocks, is now in the Museum’s permanent collection, the Collection Gala succeeded beyond our hopes.
The attendees, now known as “Friends of the Collection” were treated to a small portion of what I have been privy to over the past few years, and can enjoy the satisfaction that they had a say in the Woodson Art Museum’s permanent collection legacy.
We remain grateful to those who became Friends of the Collection and to our sponsors including: The Samuels Group, Ruder Ware, WoodTrust Bank, MBE CPAs, WAOW, Kolbe Windows & Doors, the Sargent Family, and Mary Dudley and Greg Wortman. Because of their support, we were able to work with the uber-talented Kase Styles to bring the event to life.
For one Thursday night in Wausau, Wisconsin, Kase Styles and the Woodson Art Museum turned our campus into one of those environments I referenced above. With exceptional food, florals, spaces, and company, the Museum’s first ever Collection Gala was surely a night to remember.
Now, on to planning the next one!
