Like cultural institutions across the region and beyond, the East Hampton Historical Society has had to reinvent its summer fund-raiser, the East Hampton Antiques and Design Show, in a virtual format. The Virtual Antiques Show Party, a ticketed event Friday at 5 p.m., will replace the annual Preview Cocktail Party, traditionally held on the grounds of Mulford Farm. An online auction will follow from Friday at 6 p.m. through July 24.
South Fork residents who buy the $150 tickets to the virtual party will receive a personally delivered Sea Bags beverage bucket that includes a bottle of Wolffer Rosé, a package of East Hampton shortbread cookies from Blake's Mother's Cookies, and a copy of HC&G magazine. Others will be notified when they can pick up their bags at the historical society's office.
The online auction, sponsored by Doyle Auction House, will feature items donated by top designers, including Aerin Lauder, Jonathan Adler, Charlotte Moss, Kim Seybert, Marshall Watson, and David Netto, among others. Works of art donated by the historical society will also be up for bid, as will creative experiences such as a house and garden tour, including wine and hors d'oeuvres, at Mr. Watson's East Hampton residence.
Items up for bid include "Siberian Tigers," a color digital print by Fleurs Cowles signed by the artist and donated by Ms. Moss, and a one-of-a-kind lamp designed by David Netto. Mr. Adler has donated a Dora Maar urn, the unglazed finish of which captures the features of Picasso's muse and lover, while Ms. Seybert has contributed a table runner featuring 25 different decorative beads and sequins.
Available artworks include "The Sounding Sea," an etching from 1880 by Thomas Moran, "Species Speciosis," an etching by Claus Hoie, and watercolors by David Arbus, an artist based in East Hampton.
The historical society is also offering an opportunity to bid on gift certificates to local restaurants that will be donated directly to East End first responders. Other proceeds will benefit the society's educational programs.
Tickets to the virtual party and a link to the online auction can be found on the society's website.
