Pérez Art Museum Miami raises $1.3 million in single gala evening

The Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) raised $1.3 million in a single evening during its annual PAMM Art of the Party gala on March 17, 2018. Over 900 paying attendees, including philanthropists, collectors, business figures, and artists, gathered at the Herzog & de Meuron-designed building. Ticket prices ranged from $750 to $10,000 for VIP tables. All proceeds will fund the museum's educational programs. The fourth edition featured fashion designer Valentino as host, with awards given to artist Teresita Fernández and collector-philanthropist Patricia M. Papper. The event blended art, music, haute cuisine, and wine, including a three-course culinary experience by chef Michelle Bernstein and STARR Catering Group, plus a concert by Keba and DJ sets. In contrast, Italy's MAXXI museum has raised over €1.4 million across four editions of its Acquisition Gala Dinner, highlighting the disparity in fundraising. PAMM, founded in 1984 as a fine arts center, became the Miami Art Museum in 1996 and was renamed after a major donation from billionaire Jorge Pérez, who also funded the new Herzog & de Meuron building. It is a top Miami attraction known for its Latin American art collection.