Over four hundred members of New York’s glitterati gathered at the iconic Chelsea Hotel to view the artwork of an arguably even more iconic It Girl: Edie Sedgwick.
The night’s festivities took place in the hotel’s Piano Room. The mixed crowd of partygoers, all of various ages and industries, created a buzzing atmosphere. Edie’s artwork lined the walls, depicting figure drawings, still lifes and portraits of herself and loved ones. Her work dates from 1960 to 1970, a year before her tragic passing at the age of 28. The auction was arranged by RR Auction House and was part of the Marvels of Modern Music auction which took place on November 17. “[The night] was a fitting tribute and celebration of the life of Edie Sedgwick, and her talent as an artist,” said RR Auction Executive VP, Bobby Livingston.
Attendees included Edie’s late husband and brother, Michael Post and John Sedgwick, art collector Spyros Niarchos, producer Darren Aronosky, fashion designer Zac Posen, actress Mischa Barton, stylists Freddie Lieba and Giannie Couji, among many more.
“I’ve always admired Edie Sedgwick as a fashion icon and I discovered tonight she was an amazing artist as well,” said Giannie, when asked what she thought of the night’s event.
Sedgwick lived a brief but full life that you only see in movies—and eventually, her life did become a movie (shout out Sienna Miller in Factory Girl). Edie arrived in New York City in 1964 and met Andy Warhol that same year. Edie solidified herself in America’s lexicon of iconography after starring in several of Warhol’s films, including his first commercial success, Chelsea Girls. Andy referred to Edie as one of his “Stars,” and former editor of Vogue, Diana Vreeland, declared her the face of the bold and freedom loving Youthquake movement. Edie was in and out of numerous institutions and rehabs throughout her life, seeking treatment for an eating disorder and drug addiction. She lost her battle against addiction in 1971, passing from a lethal combination of alcohol and barbiturates. Her life was cut short, but as seen at the viewing, her spirit lives on eternally.
Make sure to view the gallery for a behind the scenes look at the event and photos of the artwork.
