NEW YORK — The Betsy South Beach will be playing host to the works of 10 emerging artists, commissioned by Ruinart, the world’s first champagne house, founded in 1729. On December 2, 2010, the exhibition will kick off during Art Basel in Miami Beach, reflecting a commitment to the arts from both organizations. The works were produced using classic and avant-garde techniques, in a variety of media, including photography, paint and sculpture. Artists were inspired by the many facets of Ruinart Champagne, from the unique bottle shape to the history of its creator Dom Ruinart. Each artist’s unique work ultimately will be auctioned in New York to benefit the nonprofit organization The Art of Elysium, which provides creative outlets for children with serious illnesses.

The artworks will be on view at a pop-up gallery in the lobby bar at The Betsy, located on Ocean Drive. For years, Ruinart has been associated with artists and art fairs around the globe.

The artists who have been inspired by Ruinart and who will be showcased at the exhibition are: Melissa Ayr – Texas, Elijah Blue – California, Isaac Fortoul – New York, Mark Leibowitz – California, Pascal Pierme – New Mexico, Johnny Robles – Florida, Dane Storrusten – Washington, Carrie Sunday – New York, Kiki Valdes – Florida, Trish Williams – Illinois.

About Ruinart:

In 1729, when Nicolas Ruinart laid the foundations of the very first champagne house, he was in fact realizing the ambition of his uncle, Dom Thierry Ruinart. A Benedictine monk, Dom Ruinart intuitively foresaw the fame and success champagne would enjoy by gauging the popularity of this new sparkling wine amongst his contemporaries in the court of Versailles. The House of Ruinart was the first to use Gallo Roman chalk cellars to age its wines, and opened the American market as early as 1831. Since then, Ruinart has continued to develop its reputation as a sophisticated boutique champagne. Ruinart Champagnes are imported by Moët Hennessy USA.

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