We’re open today from 11 AM—5 PM
May 3, 2025
The Joan and Irwin Jacobs Building (700 Prospect St.)
General: $225 for Members, $250 for Non-Members / VIP: $450 for Members, $500 for Non-Members
Get TicketsChaired by Anna Haudenschild Meier, Jennifer Nelson, and Alex High, The Avant Garde Ball invites you to celebrate the fusion of art, music, and fashion in a way that San Diego has never experienced before. Save the date—Saturday, May 3, 2025—for a night of self-expression, where art extends beyond the gallery walls and MCASD transforms into a living runway. Guests are encouraged to let the works of contemporary art inspire their Avant Garde attire—fashion as bold, captivating, and expressive as the pieces on display.
Please note: The Avant Garde Ball is a 21+ event.
This one-of-a-kind party will bring together the next generation of creatives, innovators, and art lovers for an unforgettable night out featuring:
Re:claimed
Announcing Re:claimed—a one-night-only vintage pop-up offering a curated selection of pre-loved and sustainably sourced designer accessories and goods!
All proceeds from Re:claimed sales will directly benefit MCASD and its mission to engage the next generation.
The Rosin Box Project (TRBP)
Push the limits of how dance is experienced through immersive performance art by The Rosin Box Project. Watch as guests transform into professional dancers, guiding you through the party.
The Rosin Box Project is a rising leader and resource in the creation, production, and education of contemporary ballet in San Diego via innovative, authentic, and artist-driven work that allows for deeper human connection.
TRBP’s distinctive style and approach makes a unique and valuable contribution to the development of dance locally and beyond. Attracting international talent, their dancers are a group of open-minded and curious artists, each unique for their dynamic movement while sharing an intuitive passion for their art form. TRBP is a creative place and they work in a collaborative environment, aiming to create dance at its most essential: visceral, powerful, thought-provoking and transformative.
Live Mural by Invasive Animal
Throughout the night, watch as the artist Invasive Animal transforms a blank wall into a dynamic, live wheat-paste mural, blending street art with narrative in real time.
Invasive Animal is a street artist whose lo-fi wheat-paste murals transform urban spaces. Born in Texas and raised in California, Invasive Animal draws from an eclectic mix of influences, including the dynamic dance music cultures of Southern California and the multimedia art scene of Chicago. This fusion of sound and visual art shapes Invasive Animal's unique approach to urban art, where bold nature imagery and reimagined iconography offer new perspectives to those who encounter it.
Artist Installation by Fox Maxy
Fox Maxy (born and based in San Diego, US) is an artist and director who melds fantasy and internet culture. Playful and irreverent, her films wield an affinity for rich colors and collage to foreground pleasure and survival, as well as Indigenous perspectives on land and water.
Maxy was named a Chanel Next Prize winner in 2024, and her films have screened at festivals and museums internationally, including the Museum of Modern Art, Sundance Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, Rotterdam International Film Festival, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
Maxy, who is Payómkawish and from the Mesa Grande Band of Mission Indians, is currently working on her second feature film—a magical realist narrative about overdevelopment in Southern California.
To celebrate The Avant Garde Ball, Maxy has shared a sneak peek of A Walk Through Dreams, her forthcoming fashion film about fragments of dreamscapes.
To learn more about Maxy, you can stream her debut feature Guts and Glitz on MUBI.
Late Night Bites
The party will feature a fully hosted bar with thoughtfully curated cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options to keep the energy up and the vibe lively all evening. Creative small bites and elevated snacks will be served throughout the night—expect a playful twist on classic party favorites from some amazing brands!
Catering partner: Feast on This Catering
Curated Snack Offerings: Cheerie Lane Popcorn, Solana Coffee Co., Mas Matcha, and more!
CND™ Nail Art Bar
Add a touch of color to your evening with CND™ (Creative Nail Design)! Enjoy creative nail art on an accent nail and take home free CND™ products, including SolarOil™, lotion, and VINYLUX™ Long Wear Polish, known for their exceptional quality and innovation.
CND™ (Creative Nail Design) is a global leader in professional nail, hand, and foot beauty. For over 40 years, CND™ has been at the forefront of the nail industry, consistently delivering high-performing innovations and premium products. CND™ is synonymous with artistry, individuality, and excellence, making it the ultimate partner in nail fashion.
Axline Court – Curated by Future Is Color Studio Sessions
8–9PM
Meet DJ Myyon — a high-energy force behind the decks, known for electrifying blends of Brazilian Funk, Baile Funk, House, Hip-Hop, Amapiano, and more. With sharp music production skills and on-the-fly live edits, she delivers fresh, hype sets that light up every event. As a community-driven curator of culture, DJ Myyon creates intentional spaces that celebrate identity, sound, and movement — where everyone feels seen, heard, and free to move.
9–10:30PM
Cowbell Chris is San Diego's go-to Open Format DJ known for their adaptability and bringing their high energy sounds to crowds of all walks of life. Whether it's at residencies all over San Diego, a Winyl Club afterparty, or a flight away at some of the biggest parties in the country, a Cowbell Chris set guarantees even the biggest wallflowers will be converted into dancing like they've never danced before. No genre is safe from Hip Hop to Miami Bass, Jersey Club, House, and even global sounds such as Amapiano and Baile Funk. His distinct taste is only rivaled by his technical skills and stage presence but when you see Cowbell Chris on the lineup just know you're in for a treat (and a whole lot dancing).
10:30PM–12AM
DAUCHÉ, an internationally acclaimed Touring DJ and Creative Producer transcends genres with her mastery in crafting immersive sonic landscapes. Fueled by a passion for R&B, Neo-Soul, Hip-Hop, and House, her euphoric-inducing sounds create memorable experiences that resonate globally. More than a DJ, she ignites profound soulful vibes, instilling joy and empowerment. With over a decade in the industry, DAUCHÉ's commitment to celebrating culture shines in every performance. Her role as the inaugural resident tour DJ for R&B ONLY LIVE is a crowning achievement, sharing stages with Jon B, Mýa, Lloyd, BJ The Chicago Kid, Tank, Teedra Moses, and many more. DAUCHÉ continues to inspire, urging us to embrace our best selves through the transformative power of music.
Jacob's Hall
Ben Parks
8:30–10PM
Ben Parks is a San Diego-based indie pop singer-songwriter known for his intimate piano melodies and hauntingly passionate vocals. Growing up as a pastor's kid in the South, he developed his roots in Gospel music, which continues to influence his sound. In October 2022, Ben collaborated with fellow independent artists to release "Skipping Stones," the lead single from their forthcoming album. The song explores the emotional landscape of friendships and the concept of longing, featuring moving string orchestration and soft acoustic guitar. Ben's music has been described as "Sad Gay Pop," resonating with listeners through its emotional depth and authenticity.
Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok
We The Commas
10:30PM–12AM
We the Commas is a band of three brothers—Lenny, Jordy, and Cam Comma—from Carlsbad, California. Growing up in a musically rich household, they were influenced by artists like Stevie Wonder, The Jackson 5, John Mayer, and Frank Ocean. Their unique sound, which they describe as "Surf Alternative R&B," blends elements of surf culture with alternative R&B vibes. Since their debut in 2020 with the single "Sherry," they've gained recognition for their harmonious vocals and genre-blending style. Their music aims to inspire authenticity and connect with listeners on a personal level.
Anna Haudenschild Meier
Anna Haudenschild Meier, an MCASD Trustee, is the Vice President of Special Projects for the IT healthcare company, CliniComp. Anna received her Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of California, Los Angeles and her Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University. She has long been involved in the arts through her family’s alternative contemporary art space, haudenschildGarage, for which she also serves on the Board, and INSITE, an organization dedicated to long-term engagement of artists and site-specific installations around the world. Anna works with the Sharp Mesa Vista Philanthropy Council as a mental health advocate and believes in the power of art to save lives.
“Contemporary art brings insight into ourselves, culture and community; enriching our lives. The Avant Garde Ball is a sensational way to creatively engage people in the transformative world of art that MCASD invites us into.” –Anna Haudenschild Meier
Jennifer Nelson
Jennifer Nelson, an MCASD Trustee, is the Chief Executive Officer of San Diego Volunteer Lawyer Program, a nonprofit organization that provides pro bono legal assistance to low-income San Diegans. She has long had a passion for contemporary art, and its power as a medium to express beauty while sparking dialogue about important societal issues. Jennifer received her law degree from the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law and her bachelor's degree in history from the University of California, Los Angeles.
“As a lover of contemporary art, MCASD is my happy place—I am thrilled to co-chair an event that brings together our creative community and celebrates our Museum and its important mission.” –Jennifer Nelson
Alex High
Alex High is a finance professional based in Solana Beach, CA. Alex plays a key role in managing a $5 billion commercial real estate investment portfolio. He earned both his BS and MSF from the University of San Diego, graduating at the top of his class. Alex is deeply passionate about art and its transformative power, believing that it fosters community, inspires dialogue, and evokes a profound visceral response from its audience.
“I’m especially interested in building community through the arts in ways that foster connections between people who might not otherwise meet. In a city like San Diego, which can sometimes feel isolating, events like this help bring people together and potentially reshape the city’s future through these relationships—you never know what meeting someone new might spark—while supporting a great organization that serves as San Diego’s cultural center.” –Alex High
Isabella Abbott
Alani Aguerre
Evan Anderson
Dylan Bulkeley-Krane
Elise Caster
Sid Marcos
Shannon Partrick
Eva Struble
