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In celebration of a year of success and innovation, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) presented the Immortal Gala: The Art of Fashion on November 4. The occasion spotlighted the Museum’s exhibitions and programs, while recognizing the trailblazers making big moves through determination and ingenuity. Presented by Rogers and chaired by Jenna Bitove Naumovich alongside Honorary Chair Sylvia Mantella, the main star for the evening was the recipient of the inaugural award, Suzanne Rogers, who was honoured for her immeasurable contributions to the fashion industry both in Canada and abroad. Rogers is an outspoken philanthropist and a dedicated supporter of Canada’s fashion sector through initiatives like the Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University, which provides mentorship and funding to students. Her work focuses on supporting children’s welfare in Canada and raising funds to improve young lives while continuing to strengthen communities across the country.
Photography courtesy of Royal Ontario Museum
“I’m truly honoured to be the inaugural recipient of the ROM Immortal Award. Supporting Canadian fashion has always been close to my heart, and to be recognized in this way is both humbling and deeply meaningful,” said Suzanne Rogers. “I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the incredible talent that exists in this country, and I remain committed to helping our designers shine. This recognition only strengthens my belief in the power of philanthropy to elevate Canadian creativity.” The evening’s proceedings included a tribute video directed by filmmaker Barry Avrich and presentations from designer Kirk Pickersgill of celebrated Canadian fashion house Greta Constantine. The event was hosted by esteemed Canadian television journalist Lisa LaFlamme. Held at the Park Hyatt in Toronto’s midtown, the event showcased ROM’s Global Fashion and Textiles collection. A multi-cultural, multi-generational snapshot of culture, the collection consists of Parisian couture, South Korean wedding dresses, Indigenous cultural belongings, African textiles, 17th-century Japanese kimonos and Mexican embroidery, to name a few. The exclusive collection also highlights the ROM’s unique interdisciplinary storytelling that presents multiple perspectives—an area that Josh Basseches, ROM Director and CEO, feels is integral to the foundational pillars of the museum’s philanthropic efforts. “I’m delighted that this area of ROM’s focus provided such a compelling inspiration for the Gala, and has drawn together so many passionate supporters who believe in the Museum’s mission and its bright future,” stated Basseches. Beyond the luxe venue, the fashionable attendees and exclusive textile presentations, the event managed to raise over $1 million in support of the ROM. According to Janice Price, President & CEO of ROM Governors, this resounding support from attendees made it possible for the museum to continue this Immortal Gala in the years to come. “I offer my deepest gratitude to everyone who helped us to achieve this excellent result…you have each played a role in ensuring the ongoing vitality of Canada’s leading museum,” said Price. See what you missed by browsing the gallery below, which features scenes from a memorable evening and a look at the fashionable attendees. Continue Reading
