Kahla Fury, Kaitlin Stedtefeld, Alex Crute and Whitney Rutledge

The Cleveland Museum of Art (CMA) welcomed 4,000 summer solstice party-goers to its 13th annual Solstice fundraiser on June 24, celebrating Cleveland’s long summer days and hot summer nights.
Multiple international bands performed outside on a south terrace stage, in front of a glorious sunset. Later, a moonlit night graced the event as spectacular art was projected on the CMA’s exterior walls. Indoors, the Ames Family Atrium was transformed into a light-infused dance floor where 3-D illuminated lanterns designed by Inflatabill were suspended from the ceiling.
Solstice featured live music by OKAN (Cuba/Toronto), the Bazurto All Stars (Colombia), La

Chad Gross and Rachel Whitehawk (wearing an original Ungaro creation), with Benjamin Manista and Troy Licklider

Sra. Tomasa (Spain) and GoldFish (South Africa). In addition, Sanctuary, one of Cleveland’s favorite dance parties, showcased DJ Red-I, DJ Nuera, DJ Mark Who? and DJ Selecta for an unforgettable evening of mixing, mingling, dancing and fun.
“Solstice is a night like no other,” said Gabe Pollack, director of CMA’s performing arts. “Energizing music from four continents and incredible visual displays electrify the museum at the party of the year.”
Guests enjoyed prepared food from Provenance Cafe, beer, wine, and canned cocktails. The galleries stayed open late into the night with flash talks by museum staff, providing intriguing insights into the CMA’s world-class collection.
Some have compared the event to Cleveland’s version of the Met Gala, as it’s the iconic summer party of the year. The area’s best dressed gather to celebrate a night when art and music come together.
“This was an exceptionally great year [for Solstice],” said Jacqueline Bon, CMA’s Director of Communications. “The dynamic between the audience and the performers throughout the night was electric. There was so much dancing, the joy was palpable.” STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANDREA C. TURNER