
Mystery. Strategy. Anticipation. Revelation.
Incognito is the perfect training ground for art collectors who are willing to trust their instincts to add to their growing collections. This fundraising exhibition, benefitting the Santa Monica Museum of Art, showcases artworks donated by over 550 blue chip and emerging artists. Over 700 pieces of 10″x10″ artworks were displayed in the gallery and set at the same price point. Once you discover a piece of art you take its corresponding number tag and pay for the piece. The catch is that the artist’s name isn’t revealed to you until after you purchase the work.
It’s a win-win for all. Artists get exposure, the museum gets funding for its educational programs and patrons have access to art that cuts out the economic politics of galleries. You could come away with a piece from an art world luminary or you could find yourself at the cusp of an emerging artists’ creative trajectory.
I had the pleasure of spending a few moments with Incognito Committee Chair Joy Simmons during the gala and she shared that one of the other unique aspects of this museum and this event is that they showcase emerging and established African-American artists like Henry Taylor, Betty and Alison Saar, Sadie Barnette and Kenyatta Hinkle.
I love Incognito because it exposes me to new artists and it exercises my decision-making skills (or should I say, my husband’s…)
Turns out in this forum, my husband reigns supreme. Two years ago he copped a beautiful Rena Small photograph. This year he selected a work by South African Artist Ralph Ziman.

This year was the 10th Anniversary of Incognito, and it is hands down my favorite art event of the year. Congratulations to the museum and the Incognito team for putting on another fantastic evening of art.