Pérez Art Museum Celebrates Artist Delcy Morelos and Philanthropist Kenneth C. Griffin with $10 Million Gift to Enhance Museum Collection

Left: Jorge M. Pérez, Kenneth C. Griffin, Franklin Sirmans. Photos by World Red Eye

The 11th Annual Art of the Party Raises Over $1.7 Million for Arts Education Programs

Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) hosted its much-anticipated 11th Annual Art of the Party gala on Saturday, November 9, bringing together Miami’s cherished network of artists, patrons, civic leaders, and cultural enthusiasts to celebrate a remarkable night dedicated to art and community. This year, the museum paid special tribute to Kenneth C. Griffin, founder and CEO of Citadel and Griffin Catalyst, whose generous support and unwavering belief in PAMM’s mission have profoundly impacted Miami’s artistic landscape. Griffin’s newly announced $10 million gift to PAMM, shared with deep appreciation during the event, will directly support the museum’s beloved programs and enhance its world-class collection, ensuring that PAMM remains a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

The evening also honored Colombian-born artist Delcy Morelos, who received the prestigious Pérez Prize, an unrestricted $50,000 grant recognizing her invaluable contributions to the arts. With a career spanning over three decades, Morelos has created a body of work that delves into the profound connection between humanity and the earth, infusing her minimalist aesthetics with ancestral perspectives. Made possible through the generosity of Jorge and Darlene Pérez, the Pérez Prize highlights Morelos’ heartfelt practice, aligning closely with PAMM’s commitment to celebrating diverse voices and fostering meaningful connections between people and art.

Reflecting on the gala’s success, PAMM Director Franklin Sirmans shared, “We are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate our 11th Annual Art of the Party together with the civic, philanthropic, and cultural communities that support PAMM. We are thankful to share time and space with supporters who believe in the power of art and culture, and who are helping us in our mission to enrich the lives of everyone in our vibrant city and county. We’re also thrilled to honor Delcy Morelos, an artist whose powerful practice explores diverse cultural narratives between people and the environment. And, we would also like to express our deepest gratitude to Ken Griffin—his commitment to giving back, in Miami and around the world, has left a lasting impact on the arts, our community, and PAMM, in a very short period of time.”

The event’s ambiance was further elevated with a soul-stirring performance by jazz vocalist Nikki Kidd, and guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated menu by Constellation Culinary Group, bringing the evening’s warmth and community spirit to life. The gala also achieved a significant fundraising milestone, generating over $1.7 million for PAMM’s educational programs, which continue to open doors and inspire Miami-Dade’s young minds and families.

A special moment of the evening included the dedication of the Kenneth C. Griffin Gallery—PAMM’s central and largest exhibition space—which now honors Griffin’s enduring impact and serves as a testament to his generosity and belief in Miami’s cultural future. “Pérez Art Museum Miami is a world-class arts and cultural hub that enriches our great city,” Griffin shared. “I am proud to support this outstanding institution in unison with the broader Miami community.” Griffin’s philanthropic efforts are celebrated around the globe, with a particular emphasis on supporting opportunities for families and children, including landmark gifts to institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Norton Museum of Art, and the Museum of Modern Art.

As the evening transitioned into the late-night Remix After Party on PAMM’s North Terrace, artist José Parlá enlivened guests with a live DJ set, creating a spirited close to the evening’s celebration of art and community. Parlá’s solo exhibition, José Parlá: Homecoming, set to open on November 14, is another testament to PAMM’s dedication to showcasing impactful contemporary art that reflects Miami’s rich and unique cultural narratives.

Year after year, Art of the Party underscores PAMM’s devotion to building a community of art lovers, cultural visionaries, and supporters. Through this cherished gathering and the ongoing commitment of PAMM’s patrons, the museum continues to inspire, educate, and foster an enduring love for the arts that has become the heart and soul of Miami’s cultural spirit.