It was truly an exceptional evening that paralleled the many accomplishments of the man it was honoring, Director Paul Ha. This year, the Contemporary Art Museum’s annual Gala celebrated the leadership of Ha and the many contributions he made to CAM and to the St. Louis contemporary art culture during his nine years as Director of the Contemporary Art Museum. Ha recently left the CAM director position for another position in which he is sure to excel, Director of the List Visual Arts Center at MIT.
Of his many accomplishments during his time with CAM, he contributed to its vibrancy and growth by bringing over 220 artists to St. Louis and producing over 90 exhibitions, as well as supervising the construction of the new CAM facility. Due to Ha’s accomplishments with CAM, he was able to gain it national and international recognition. The evening was a celebration to honor the many accomplishments of a truly exceptional member of the St. Louis community.
Over 350 people were in attendance to witness Ha be presented with various awards to thank him for his dedication to CAM and to the community. Of these, he was presented with a St. Louis Cardinals jersey with his name on the back given to him by Bill DeWitt III, a key to the city presented to him by Mayor Francis Slay, and a portrait from artist Philip Slein. Proceeds from the evening totaled over $130,000 to benefit programs for the Contemporary Art Museum.
If you were unable to attend the gala, be sure to view the Party Pics.
