Curated Texan
Texas Cultural Trust Hosts 11th Biennial Texas Meal of Arts Awards That Raised Over Two Million
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
Amy Robison, Judy Robison and Jill Robison
THE SCENE: Austin was the recent setting for two days of fun and fundraising that honored the substantial artistic contributions of 11 Texas based individuals and organizations. Hosted by the Texas Cultural Trust, 11th the biennial Texas Medal of Arts Awards drew over 900 of the state’s most notable art patrons, philanthropists and sociables for a series of star-studded performances and tributes.
THE VIBE: The festivities for the first day began on the stunning grounds of the Auberge Commodore Perry Estate with an al fresco VIP cocktail party and reception. Held in the early evening as dusk turned into night, the cocktail attire crowd could be seen sipping on their favorite spirits while being reacquainted with old friends from around Texas. Guests also had the opportunity to informally mingle with the honorees in advance of the main awards ceremony.
The following day, honorees and other VIPs headed to the Governor’s Mansion for a luncheon where each of the 11 amazing individuals and organizations, were honored formally and received their newly designed Texas Medal of Arts Award. At the luncheon, one could see a mix of cocktail attire, Texas-chic attire and bright-colored dresses that were perfect for the bright, sunny Texas backdrop Mother Nature so generously provided.
The main event was held later that evening at The Long Center for the performing arts for the Texas Medal of Arts Awards ceremony and gala. The black tie audience donned their finest ensembles and began the evening by posing for images on the red carpet before going to the mezzanine level of The Long Center. There, the cocktail hour, where partygoers continued conversations from the night before, brimmed with anticipation for the upcoming program. Patrons then took their seats for the main program. Peabody Award-winning broadcaster, producer, and Midland native Elliott Forrest effortlessly lead the brisk, lively, and informative 90-minute program comprised of special tributes for each of the 11 honorees. Among the highlights were a stunning fashion show that featured looks from Dallas native fashion designer Lela Rose, musical performances including Lindale native Miranda Lambert, who sang select songs from the album, The Marfa Tapes alongside collaborators Jack Ingram and Jon Randall, and San Antonio native Christopher Cross, accompanied by Peter Bay and the Austin Symphony Orchestra, in the singing and performance of his iconic song, Sailing.
The 2023 Texas Medal of Arts Awards recipients included: Center for Performing Arts Medicine, the late Carole Cook, Christopher Cross, Miranda Lambert, Miró Rivera Architects: Juan Miró and Miguel Rivera, Deborah Roberts, Lela Rose, Benjamin Alire Sáenz, Taylor Sheridan, Septime Webre, and Luke Wilson.
The evening was capped off with a seated dinner, in an open-air tent, on the The Long Center’s terrace with its stunning backdrop of the Austin skyline. Upon entering, one was treated to an instrumental orchestral performance in the round located in the center of the space. Throughout the meal, guests could be seen mingling with the Texas Meal of Arts Award recipients, enjoying the picture-perfect Texas weather, and toasting a highly successful two days that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget.
THE NON PROFIT: The event, co-chaired by Linda LaMantia of Laredo and Judy Robison of El Paso, with Leslie Ward of Austin serving as honorary chair, raised over $2 million for the Texas Cultural Trust. The organization, led by Heidi Marquez Smith, spotlights artistic excellence in Texas as well as acting as a leading voice for the arts in education and its positive economic impact in Texas
