A BLAST IN black white

he evening of May 5 is warm and sunny. It seems like everyone in the city has streamed out onto the streets and sidewalks of downtown Fargo. Patrons at the sidewalk tables along First Avenue North set down their glasses to watch a steady stream of revelers dressed entirely in black and white flock to the Plains Art Museum — where a brisk prairie wind ruffles the flowing trains of formal gowns and a line stretches out the door, around the building and halfway down the block.

In line, the mood is merry. Couples dressed in their finest pose for photos, while groups of friends emerge from vehicles, greeting each other with hugs, handshakes and little spins to show off their outfits.

The theme and the dress code for the Plains Art Museum Gala this year is “Black and White.” A quick glance at the partygoers reveals just how creative this group of artists, art supporters, philanthropists, business and civic leaders can get.

There are dozens, perhaps hundreds of little black dresses on display, a dizzying array of styles and shapes, from sleek lace numbers to vintage-inspired, full-skirted silhouettes. Ladies in flowing maxi dresses and funky blazers chat with friends in elaborate hats. The gentlemen in the crowd have donned everything from tuxedos to black and white Mexican sombreros to a wrestling singlet, while striking women channel Bianca Jagger in slim white pantsuits and sleek, black jumpsuits with daring necklines.

There were floor length gowns in delicate white lace and white Converse sneakers and black knee socks and sequined dinner jackets — occasionally as part of the same outfit. Revelers dressed up as pantomime characters and images from famous works of art, while others came in full period costume, their eyes obscured with masks.

And the patterns — oh, the patterns! The galleries of the Plains Art Museum were a cacophony of florals, stripes, polka dots and paisley, mixed with luscious embroidery, brocade and bejeweled accents. The stage was set for a spectacular evening.

Alli Borshiem of Moorhead admires the art with her friend, Julie Larson of Fargo. Both women gaze out from behind origami masks made from a template by artist Steve Wintercroft. They had previously served Dunn Brothers Coffee at the gala (the company provided coffee this year as well), but decided to buy tickets this year.

“We thought, ‘How fun would it be to come here as guests?’” says Borshiem. “And just immerse ourselves in the experience,” finishes Larson. Then they are off, whisked into the swirling mass of partygoers in a swish of sparkle and cheeky, cherry-printed skirts.

There is much to see, taste and try. The menu (served by Concordia, Chef’s Table Catering, Mosaic Catering, Urban Foods and VIP Catering) echoes the black and white theme. Dainty cups of ceviche mingle with deviled eggs (their yokes dark and flavorful, thanks to a squid ink infusion) along with heaping platters of fruit and other tempting nibbles.

Upstairs, decadent chocolate truffles and tiny cups of lavender infused mousse from Nichole’s Fine Pastry prove that a simple palette of black and white can produce spectacular results. Partygoers fill up their plates in between sips of wine and cider, provided by Happy Harry’s Bottle Shops and Wild Terra Cider and Brewing.

Shadow dancers from Red River Dance and Performing Company set the mood, while mood lighting from Livewire took the funky, mysterious vibe of the gathering to every nook and cranny of the museum, carving out busy social areas for drinking and dining and quiet spots to unwind. Fan favorite Post Traumatic Funk syndrome took the stage later in the evening, serving up supremely danceable classic rock with a healthy dose of horns as Rhombus Guys pizza arrived to combat late night munchies.

The unique atmosphere, great food and unparalleled people-watching make the Plains Art Museum Gala one of the best parties in town. But the real draw for many is the silent art auction, where art fans gather to bid on the perfect piece to take home.

“As the leader of the museum, and as someone who has worked at the Plains for many years, it has been amazing to see the growth in this event,” says Plains Art Museum director Andy Maus. “In the beginning, it was a relatively small event, and today, it engages hundreds of people and nets close to $100,000. I love seeing the generosity in people!”

It’s all for a good cause. “Proceeds support arts access and education,” explains Maus. “Specifically, support is split between our PlainsArt4All General Fund, which keeps the museum general admission free, and sponsorship of educational programs, which keeps the museum educationally-driven.”

For a great night for a great cause, the Plains Art Museum Gala delivers. [ aw ]