This weekend, 99-year old Angeleno artist and activist Betye Saar stood onstage, absorbing spasms of resounding applause from a crowd of philanthropists, art lovers, and tenants of the West Coast scene gathered for The Hammer Museum's 21st annual Gala in the Garden. Saar, alongside Darren Star (Sex and the City, Beverly Hills 90210, Emily in Paris), was being honored at the event for her masterful contribution to the arts. Guests, aglow from convivial introductory remarks from Sandra Jackson-Dumont and preceding remarks from Star with an introduction from Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, were understandably boisterous.

Saar, ever vivacious, thanked the guests for their respect for, and continued championing of, the arts and specifically The Hammer, and in the conclusion of her speech, swept her gaze across the audience.

"Any questions?" she asked wryly.

"What is the secret?" A guest called out.

Saar, exuding her signature brand of practicality, answered honestly. A great breakfast; a connection with the land around her; and the birthright of being a California girl. She exited to a standing ovation and proceeded to the afterparty, dancing with Darren Star at the center of a celebratory dance floor.

Such was the exuberant spirit igniting the crowd at The Hammer Museum, a landmark of culture and creativity in Los Angeles’ Westwood neighborhood. This year’s event was arranged in recognition of international bastions of Los Angeles culture, Darren Star and Betye Saar, and attracted an array of well-known guests who converged in admiration of their achievements. With a blend of socialites and philanthropists in attendance, the gala raised two million dollars in support of the museum’s exhibits and public programs, which are accessible at no cost to visitors year round.

Gala co-chair Joel Wachs and museum director Zoë Ryan spoke at length about the importance of artistic appreciation, establishing the Hammer’s integral significance within the greater Los Angeles community. Ryan also commemorated the accomplishments of museum chair Marcy Carsey, who will be stepping down from her longtime position this year. These remarks were followed by speeches from Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos and Getty Presidential Scholar Sandra Jackson-Dumont, paying tribute to Star’s impact on the television industry and Saar’s centennial year of life respectively.  

The gala’s after-party—notably featuring Saar and Star at the center of a joyful dance floor—featured offerings of Patrón and Grey Goose-infused cocktails, enhanced by an exclusive DJ set from musician Landon Ross. Notable attendees photographed at the evening’s celebration include Owen Wilson, Nico Tortorella, and Rufus Wainwright, as well as artists Lauren Halsey, Karon Davis, and 2025 Mohn Award winner Ali Eyal.