“Time Bomb,” The 25th Annual Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction, Raises Over $2 Million

The “party of the summer” inspired guests to line up prior to opening, looking to enjoy every minute of The 25th Annual Watermill Center Summer Benefit & Auction at the Byrd Hoffman Water Mill Foundation’s sprawling campus. Themed Time Bomb, it attracted a hip, attractive crowd, a thousand strong – who can now claim bragging rights for attending – and raised 2.2 million dollars to continue Robert Wilson’s work to nurture young artists. Pierre Bergé, who co-founded Yves Saint Laurent with his lover, was honored in memory. A commanding figure in French industry and culture, Bergé’s circle of friends included Camus, Sartre, Cocteau and Wilson. Bergé’s final partner Madison Cox spoke during dinner.