On Saturday, July 12, LongHouse Reserve lit up the East Hampton evening with its 2025 summer benefit, Luminosity—a sold-out celebration of art, nature and community set within the reserve’s beloved 16-acre sculpture garden. The event honored longtime supporters Mary Jane and Charles Brock, alongside visionary artist Vija Celmins, whose oceanic renderings were described as “portraits of infinity” by Guggenheim Director Emeritus Richard Armstrong. There were moments of surprise and delight around every corner: As attendees entered the grounds, they were greeted by whimsical characters on stilts. Ring a bell on a wall of greenery, and a hand popped out, offering up a coupe of sparkling rosé. Guests gathered beneath the setting sun for live music, vibrant color and heartfelt gratitude, culminating in what Board President Louis Bradbury proudly deemed “our most successful benefit ever.”
The night also offered an exciting preview of LongHouse’s next chapter: the anticipated public opening of founder Jack Lenor Larsen’s iconic modernist home. A film by Gael Towey and narration by celebrated critic Paul Goldberger offered a glimpse inside the house that artistry built. Art took center stage throughout the evening, with Benefit Art Chairs Pamela Willoughby and Dianne Benson assembling a dynamic auction of over 75 works, including pieces by Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman and Ugo Rondinone. With 100 percent board participation, the benefit reaffirmed LongHouse’s mission: to serve as a living laboratory where creativity, design and the natural world converge. longhouse.org
Photography courtesy of BFA, Patrick McMullan and 27 East Creative