BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS.- On Wednesday, April 3, The Back Lot at the new Ritz-Carlton, Boston Common will be the scene of an exciting gathering of collectors and curators, art aficionados and those just getting their feet wet on understanding the contemporary art scene. What better setting than the new Ritz-Carlton which boasts their own unique contemporary art collection by Boston artists, many of who are MassArt grads or alumni.

This “Evening of Connoisseurship” is sponsored by the hotel to benefit MassArt and will highlight a panel discussion on collecting contemporary art, in anticipation of the school’s upcoming Annual Benefit Auction on April 19. Dan Elias, host of WGBH Antiques Road Show will moderate the informal yet provocative discussion on how to begin collecting, how to enhance an existing collection, and what to look for in the contemporary art world.



The panel includes Barbara Krakow, Barbara Krakow Gallery; Marlene Persky, Collector and member of Visiting Committee: Worcester Art Museum; and Don Stanton, Collector and Founder of Friends of Boston Art. Our panelists are well known for their candid style and will encourage an open dialogue with the audience. The hotel will have an opportunity to showcase their art collection as well as creations of their celebrated chef, Jorg Behrend. A reception begins at 6:30 PM with connoisseur martinis and artful hors d’oeuvres. The panel begins at 7:30 PM, followed by desserts and coffee.



This event is part of the Trilogy of Art in April to benefit MassArt. Seating is limited; tickets are $75.00 per person. Tickets to the April 19 Benefit Auction are also $75.00 per person and includes tickets to the Preview Reception on April 16. The auction takes place in the Bakalar and Huntington Galleries, South Hall Building, Massachusetts College of Art, 621 Huntington Avenue, Boston. All proceeds from the Trilogy of Art events will benefit MassArt student scholarships and academic programs.