Last night much was revealed as The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallerywelcomed a sophisticated mix of Toronto’s most influential notables, taste makers and influencers at Canada’s mostavant-garde and vibrant gala, Power Ball: 21 Clubin partnership with presenting sponsor, Holt Renfrew.
The Power Plant was transformed into an illicit speakeasy, where guests enjoyed a night of revelry and indulgence, by way of immersive artist projects, performances, cocktails and delicious food.
Upon entering the Clerestory, party-goers instantly became the event’s main attraction. Holt Renfrew welcomed guests with a visually experiential neon runway where they enjoyed perfect Instagram-able moments, while sipping delectable cocktails from FIOL Prosecco and Spirit of York. Guests made their way into the pre-party experience designed by local artist-restaurateur Sarah Keenly side who took partygoers on a spectacular journey that combined food and performance for her work Centerpiece(2019), a reimagining of the dining experience. Performers transported guests into a space, which celebrates the dance of service, all while they indulged in exquisite cuisine by Man RayBar à vin, La Bananeand CXBO Chocolates.
At the Power Ball party, Toronto-based artist Bruno Billiopresented an enlarged, immersive version of his Tron209room, a work that engages with bygone visions of the future by manipulating everyday objects and spaces with tape and black light. Mexican artist Chelsea Culprit presented a commanding neon installation Tru Bruja(2018) and guests were in awe of Max Streicher’slarge-scale inflatable sculptures, Sleeping Giants.
Power Ball: 21 Club featured performances by Toronto’s diverse LGBTQ community curated by Tobaron Waxmanof the Intergenerational LGBT Artist Residency. Carlotta Carlisle, Tynomi Banks, FlaringtonKing, Gay Jesus, and Dainty Smith and Imogen Quest of Les Femmes Fatales Burlesque sashayed and stripped their way across the stage. Guests werealso treated to a special, site-specific installation by Two-Spirit, Métisartist Michel Dumont, an alum of the Residency.
Canadian emerging artist Sarah Zanchetta, acquired through Bumble Bizz invited guests to explore the hidden wonders of Sweet Digs, an installation inspired by Bumble’s mission to change antiquated gender norms, by encouraging women to make the first move. Bunz encouraged guests to tip the bartenders, purchase raffle tickets and party tickets with BTZ points, and write down their intentions of living a more sustainable life on seed paper.
Throughout the evening, party-goers discovered a food speakeasy by Arthur’sRestaurantwith food served from compartments, shucked oysters from a grand piano by Chase Fish & Oyster, and glow in the dark Plantatreats.They also enjoyed a dessert gardenby Ricarda’sand2000Krispy Kremedonuts. Spirit of York, Ace Hill, Pommiesand Château des Charmesall served up libations that celebrated the end of prohibition.
