We’re open today from 11 AM—7 PM
The Avant Garde Ball
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:
- Open bar with crafted cocktails, beer, and wine
- House music
- In-gallery DJ listening rooms
- Live music
- Immersive artist installations
- Exclusive photo ops
- Late night bites
- VIP experience upgrades: professional photography session, limited-edition gift, and first access to shop Re:claimed...
Announcing Re:claimed—a vintage pop-up offering a curated selection of pre-loved and sustainably sourced designer accessories and goods! All purchases directly support MCASD.
Live Music
Ben Parks
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
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.
About the Chairs
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