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Lynn Saferty, MD of Montblanc UK, with Valeria Napoleone. Photographer: Lucy Stewart
Last night the 28th Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award honoured the work of the Italian-born art collector and philanthropist Valeria Napoleone for the Valeria Napoleone XX Contemporary Art Society (VN XX CAS) initiative.
The award has been recognising the work and contributions of modern-day patrons of art and culture since 1992. VN XX CAS focuses on purchasing and donating important works by women artists to museums across the UK. It aims to make a significant impact and open the conversation on the role that female artists play in a male-led arts world, by having their art pieces exhibited in museums all over the UK. This year two photographs by South African artist Berni Searle were acquired for Manchester Art Gallery.
The event took place at the recipient’s home in West London. Guests joining the celebrations on the evening included Hans-Ulrich Obrist, Artistic Director Serpentine Galleries, Roksanda Ilinčić, fashion designer, Victoria Siddall, Director of Frieze, Julie Verhoeven, illustrator, Alessandro Rabottini, art curator and critic, Polly Staple, Director Chisenhale Gallery, Margot Heller, Director South London Gallery, Valeria’s sister and accessories designer Stefania Pramma as well as husband and daughter.