The Royal Oak Foundation is gearing up for its 17th-annual Timeless Design Gala, readying New York City's Essex House for Thursday, Nov. 13, when the foundation will honor Lord David Armstrong-Jones Viscount Linley of Nymans with the Timeless Design Award, and the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art (ICAA) with the Heritage Award.
The Royal Oak Foundation’s Board of Directors, a panel headed by Sir Peter Westmacott and Lady Westmacott and populated by committee members such as Thomas Jayne, Mario Buatta, Alexa Hampton, Petter Marino and Bunny Williams, elected Linley to receive the Timeless Design Award for his extraordinary accomplishments in furniture and decorative arts design over the past three decades as well as his achievements in interior design.
Lord David Armstrong-Jones Viscount Linley of Nymans
Linley's parents, Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon, nurtured Linley's creative ability from an early age, encouraging his passion for craftwork, an interest sparked by wood-working in school. It was actually his student work that eventually led to his first LINLEY collection, which launched in 1985. Since then, his handcrafted furniture has become known for its distinctly British sophistication, charm and inventiveness.
Design by Lord David Armstrong-Jones Viscount Linley of Nymans
His pieces demonstrate consummate artistry and craftsmanship and a deep knowledge of and passion for the heritage of art and design, from the Renaissance through Neo-Classicism and Modernism, so it's no surprise that, in 2006, Lord Linley became Chairman of Christie’s UK. Here he's responsible for leading the office and working with the auction house's specialists to develop business and client relationships in the UK and internationally.
ICAA travel program in Sicily, Italy
In honoring the ICAA with the Heritage Award, Royal Oak recognizes the role the institute plays in the advancement of the Classical tradition in architecture, urbanism and their allied arts. This aligns it with the mission of the National Trust, Royal Oak’s principal partner, which preserves and exhibits some of the greatest examples of neo-Classical architecture and fine and decorative arts.
The institute’s commitment to education and its national reach mirror Royal Oak’s work in educating American audiences about British art, history and culture.
Presented annually, the Heritage Award recognizes individuals or organizations in Britain and the United States that have substantially advanced the understanding and appreciation of our shared cultural heritage.
The black-tie gala takes place at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 13, at the Essex House, at 160 Central Park South. Tickets start at $850, and proceeds will benefit the Royal Oak Foundation. To purchase tickets for the event, click here.
