Patrons and supporters of The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles arrived at The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA to honor Jeff Koons at its 38th annual star-studded gala—raising over $3 million to benefit the museum's exhibition program and growing collection. For this year's gala, co-chaired by MOCA Trustees Lilly Tartikoff Karatz and Maurice Marciano, the museum transformed The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA into an immersive setting inspired by Koons's vibrant, highly polished, and meticulously crafted artworks including a bright purple carpet, reflective magenta tables, and hundreds of metallic magenta balloons. Koons's Celebration series, which delights in the rituals and images surrounding birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions, served as a particular point of inspiration for the evening. As part of its nod to the series, the gala showcased Balloon Dog (Orange), Balloon Dog (Magenta), and Balloon Dog (Yellow), a series of limited edition plates by Koons, produced in France by the legendary French porcelain maker Bernardaud. Sold exclusively through MOCA, sales from this special edition benefit the museum.
