Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
About 450 guests attended Moondance, the Heard Museum’s annual gala, which raised $1.2 million for the museum’s exhibitions, programs and operations.
Heard trustee Matthew Boland chaired the event, which honored fellow trustee Sharron Lewis and artist Jesse Monongye (1952-2024).
“Moondance is a celebration of the Heard Museum and the community that supports it,” said David M. Roche, Heard Museum Dickey Family director and CEO. “This year we recognized two extraordinary individuals who have created an enduring legacy at our museum.”
The evening featured an exclusive one-night-only exhibition, Opal Moons and Lapis Skies, a tribute to the late lapidary Navajo/Hopi artist Jesse Monongye.
Guests also participated in a silent auction featuring more than 40 lots of handmade jewelry by Indigenous artists, including works by Charles Loloma, Denise Wallace, Robert and Bernice Leekya, gala honoree Jesse Monongye and others.
Following a reception and exhibition viewing, guests enjoyed a surprise performance by Indigenous Enterprise during the dinner program.
M Culinary Concepts presented a custom menu with a dessert tribute to Monongye featuring his favorite burger and shake combo. Local favorite Instant Classics Band closed the evening with dancing under the moon to a playlist inspired by Monongye’s favorite tunes.
Honoree Sharron Lewis has dedicated decades to uplifting institutions that reflect her values. She is especially devoted to the Heard Museum and its mission of preserving and celebrating Native art and culture. Through her involvement, she has supported Indigenous artists and worked to build bridges between past and future, tradition and innovation.
Dozens of Ms. Lewis’ close friends attended Moondance, many of whom made tribute gifts to the museum in her honor.
The evening ended with guests receiving a gift from chair Matthew Boland of blue corn pancake mix and prickly pear syrup “because every great night deserves an equally great breakfast.”
