Event RECAP X The Third Annual Design Exchange Design Auction

The Third Annual Design Exchange Design Auction, held on May 17th, 2017 gave their guests an exquisite evening, with the option to partake in a luxury affair- a spectacular silent and live auction, where a plethora of original designer items were up for grabs.

Top names such as Tom Dixon, Moooi, Fontana Arte, FLOS, Molteni&C, Knoll, Marcel Wanders, Omer Arbel Office, Milo Baughman, Philippe Starck, GUBI, Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni,  were amongst the bevy.

Our Dauphine team had the pleasure of interviewing Shauna Levy / President + Chief Executive Officer of the Design Exchange about the charitable affair.

1. What inspired this year's selection of Art and Design pieces for the auction?

In keeping with the auction's celebration of original, quality-crafted, and unique design wares and furnishings, the committee continued the tradition of curating a selection of authentic works in the auction. Design Exchange is committed to demonstrating the importance and relevance of design to everyday life, and that includes providing an experience where our visitors and guests can learn about the designers and brands who are making unique and original pieces.  

2. What can we expect to see in terms of thematic flare for the event? 

This year, the committee, co-chaired by Jeffrey Douglas, Mary Jo Looby, and Erin McLaughlin, applied a more gallery-like theme to the event. This meant that the works were displayed against white backdrops so that the uniqueness of each piece was more evident. This also provided an opportunity for guests to learn about and really examine the work – much like in a traditional art auction.

3. Why is this annual event fundamental to the Arts, and how does it assist in socially educating on art culture? 

The third annual DX Design Auction is an important fundraiser for Design Exchange.  The proceeds directly support DX's education and public programs, such as the free Kids' Days; offsite initiatives including our project for Toronto For Everyone (earlier this year); and our DX Talks series, which allows us to bring the best design minds to DX.  

DX Design Auction provides an opportunity for guests to learn about new designers and brands, as well as often meet the people behind the pieces and learn more about the story of the work. When we can connect visitors, the general public, and guests with the designers, makers, and tinkerers, this is a component of design learning and enriches one's understanding of culture. 

All proceeds from the annual event support Design Exchange’s unmatched public and education programs including museum exhibitions, off-site initiatives as well as community outreach programs, workshops for kids and adults, and design competitions.

Thank you to ASCPR for having DAUPHINE involved in such a prestigious event.

Event Photos: By Anesha Sylvia