VIP Cocktail Reception at Ki Smith Gallery in NYC Kicked Off “Friend”, An Exhibition to Benefit Sentebale
New York, NY, December 5, 2024 – The intimate Ki Smith Gallery was abuzz with excitement during the exclusive VIP Cocktail Reception this evening to launch the highly anticipated “Friend” exhibition benefiting Sentebale. The event brought together supporters from the art, philanthropy, and culture worlds, with Co-Founding Patron, Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex at the event alongside gallerist Ki Smith and Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE, Sentebale’s Board Chair.
Sentebale was founded in 2006 by Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, and HRH Prince Seeiso of Lesotho with a vision that all children and young people in southern Africa are empowered, healthy and resilient.
The reception provided an exclusive preview of the “Friend” exhibition’s curation, including iconic works by Bridget Riley, whose dynamic Op Art pieces have revolutionized visual perception; Frank Stella’s Blyvoors from the acclaimed South African Mine series; and Tadaaki Kuwayama’s rarely seen 1980s series, presented for the first time in decades. Contemporary highlights include dynamic contributions from Alana Dee Haynes, Dylan Reitz-Cruz, and Sono Kuwayama, who bring fresh perspectives to the exhibition’s dialogue between past and present.
All pieces are for sale with proceeds going to benefit the work of Sentebale. Select pieces have sold in pre-sale. Guests were treated to a first look at these iconic works before the exhibition opens to the public on December 14, 2024.
The reception featured a thought-provoking panel discussion on the intersection of art and impact, introduced by The Duke, moderated by Dr. Chandauka, with panelists including Ki Smith, artist Rakuko Naito, and art collector Charlotte Matityahu. The dialogue explored how art serves as a medium for social change and a force for connection, resonating deeply with Sentebale’s mission to enable vulnerable children and young people to thrive.
Prominent artists, including Rakuko Naito and Jorge Luis Rodriguez, were among the guests, alongside Harriet McGurk, the wife of the late Frank Stella, Lesley Ma, Associate Curator, Asian Art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, investigative journalist Ronan Farrow, Douglas Walla, Founder of Kent Fine Art, Francis Greenburger, founder of Time Equities Inc. and Art Omi, Inc., adding further prestige to the event.
Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex said:
“We are deeply grateful to Ki for curating this remarkable exhibition and for traveling with us to Lesotho and South Africa in October to witness firsthand the impact of Sentebale’s work. To the incredible artists who have contributed their talent and vision, thank you for lending your voices to this cause.”
Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE, Chair of the Board for Sentebale said:
“In Southern Africa, we say Ubuntu — a philosophy that means ‘I am what I am because of who we all are.’ Tonight, we see Ubuntu in action, reflected in this community of supporters and the incredible artists whose works inspire and connect us. Each piece on display carries a message of solidarity, dignity, respect and shared humanity. It is this same spirit of community that drives Sentebale’s mission.”
Ki Smith, Gallerist:
“My mentality is that you get what you give. Art is my medium, but it’s also a powerful tool for change. Hosting this exhibition is my way of giving back and creating something meaningful. Seeing this incredible collection come together, knowing it will make a tangible impact through Sentebale, is deeply rewarding.”
Exhibited Artists:
Agnes Martin
Alana Dee Haynes
Bridget Riley
Dylan Rietz Cruz
Frank Stella
Jorge Luis Rodriguez
Rakuko Naito
Richard Hambleton
Sang Eun
Sono Kuwayama
Taiji Terasaki
Tadaaki Kuwayama
Exhibition Details:
‘Friend’ will run from Saturday, December 14 to Sunday, January 19
Ki Smith Gallery
170 Forsyth Street
New York, NY
Members of the public can visit kismithgallery.com to book a date.
Exhibition is free to visit, with an opportunity for a donation to Sentebale on site, or at Sentebale.org.
Special thanks to Hanoch Sheps, counsel at Mazzola Lindstrom LLP, Royal Salute and Farm to People for their support. In addition, a warm thank you to Dana Estates and RUMOR Rosé for their contributions.
