Interview

Joseph Grima and Andre Balasz; Shirin Neshat and Charles Renfro. Photos by Hal Horowitz

On Tuesday evening, André Balazs and Shirin Neshat hosted a bevy of guests in architect's glasses to the Storefront for Art and Architecture's Spring Benefit.  What more apropos a venue than Balazs's own Le Corbusian Standard hotel, complete with enviable views of the perennially unfinished but nevertheless promising Highline. Architects Charles Renfro and Steven Holl, as well as event honorees, gallerist Max Protetch and artist Madelon Vriesendrop, were all on-hand to test their vision.  Wedged between the two bars in the main party room was an impressive exhibition of works for the silent auction, among them a plywood painting by Richard Woods and two architectural drawings by Louis Kahn.  In his speech, Storefront board President, architect Peter Guggenheimer sounded the cry of many a benefit-leader this season, imploring the crowd, "to live in a bubble and not worry about money for the next two hours." Certainly Balazs, who set his hotel's façade in glass, has made that vision possible... at least for the duration of the party.