Scarlett Johansson and Vanity Fair Host Art of Elysium Auction
The name “Johansson” was scribbled in pen on top of the bid sheet for Peregrine Honig’s "Rosethroat" painting at the silent auction to benefit the Art of Elysium.
But Scarlett Johansson, who co-hosted the event with Vanity Fair, wasn't the only famous face who came out to support the organization, which brings art to sick children in Los Angeles and New York City hospitals. Among the other celebrities in attendance: Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Topher Grace, Anna Kendrick, Elijah Wood, and Jayma Mays.
The silent auction included pieces from a stellar list of art-world names including Frank Gehry, Kimberly Brooks, and Helen Garber.
Ginnifer Goodwin bid on Stephanie Pryor's "Rosebud" painting, while Scott Caan’s "I Heart Paris" photo went for $5,000. Nicky Hilton bid on Mattia Biagi’s small black-tar teddy bear, while David Arquette staked his claim on Debra Scacco’s drawing "Thank You for Loving Me.”
All the while, Andrea Fiuczynski of Christie's lead the live auction with the foreboding warning, "If you put your paddle down, someone else can shop with it!"
And shop they did.
A test-drive in the new Tesla went for $1,700 and a private portrait sitting with painter Abdi Farah of Bravo’s Work of Art went for $9,000. The auction ended with a $30,000 bid to sponsor a mural by Shepard Fairey at the LAC and USC Medical Center.
Art truly is the greatest gift, for little and big kids alike.