CULTURE WATCH

1stdibs—the New York-based online marketplace for art, design and antiques—has mounted a selling exhibition celebrating the art of fashion icon Gloria Vanderbilt. “The World of Gloria Vanderbilt: Collages, Dream Boxes, and Recent Paintings” opened last week during Fashion Week with a star-studded fundraiser hosted by1stdibs founder and Chairman, Michael Bruno, CNN anchor (and Vanderbilt’s son), Anderson Cooper, comedienne Kathy Griffin, Jim Druckman, fashion designers Diane von Furstenberg and Adolfo and author Joyce Carol Oates.

In addition to being a celebrated socialite and heiress, actress, model and muse, entrepreneur, writer and artist, Vanderbilt is probably most widely recognized as the first to create designer jeans in the 70s, which carried her name in script on the back pocket, along with her signature swan logo.

Now, at 88, Vanderbilt works every day in her studio, painting, creating dramatic collages and constructing her Dream Boxes as outlets for her vision and imagination. Her work has been shown in museums and galleries across the country and she has received honorary doctorates of fine arts and awards including the National Society of Arts and Letters Gold Medal of Merit. In addition to new works, the exhibition also includes a curated selection of pieces from Vanderbilt's private collection. This grouping includes earlier canvases and signature Dream Boxes spanning her career as an accomplished artist.

“I am thrilled to present the works of Gloria Vanderbilt, a creative tour de force and a woman I have long admired,” says Michael Bruno. “I am continually impressed by her boundless energy, creativity and imagination. She is a true original.”