Bal Jaune...

Just arrived to this unusually cold Paris (tonight we had 5°C), I went to the Bal Jaune, the mythical dinner held by the Fondation Ricard to announce the winner of the Best Young Artist in Contemporary Art of the Year Award. From October 20th, and until the 23rd, the FIAC (Foire d'Arts Contemporain) is being held in town at the Grand Palais and all the big collectors of the world, the artists and the curious are here. Of course, the Ricard Dinner is THE event of the week and no one would miss it. This year, the place chosen was the Theatre de Chaillot. Two hundred people were invited to the dinner and more than 3000 to the afterwards dance, which began at midnight and would have performances by the band "The New Beatles."

There were three long long tables, for 70 people each, and all had big center pieces with palm leaves. They looked amazing. I was fortunate enough to be seated near the alma mater of the Fondation, Corinne Ricard, who is also one of my best friends. The greatest lovers of contemporary art were all there, including Francois Pinault, Rita Caltagirone and the artist Gerard Garouste. I was seated next to Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, with whom I had a wonderful time. I've always admired his work as a fashion designer.

Of course, in unison we all toasted for France's Rugby team, which is to face the All Blacks tomorrow morning in the World Cup Final.

The French were well represented by their artists and also by the excellent menu, signed by the chef  Yannick Alléno, who prepared an original and exquisite menu.

The 13th Ricard Award was given to the young Adrien Missika, who will also have the privilege of showing his work during an entire month at the Centre Pompidou.

I did not stay for the dance, but as I left, I saw the long line of those waiting to get inside, in spite of the chilly weather...