The Frye Art Museum gathered quite a crowd on Friday, February 21 for the opening of its latest exhibition—Isamu Noguchi and Qi Baishi: Beijing 1930. Guests headed through the colonnade into the spacious rotunda where they were welcomed and invited to explore drawings by one of the most revered sculptors of the twentieth century, side-by-side with the drawings and paintings of another artist who exerted a great influence on him. Frye members were treated to an exclusive presentation by curator Jo-Anne Birnie Danzke, providing a glimpse into the unique and pivotal relationship that developed between Noguchi and Qi in Beijing in 1930. The Frye exhibit showcases the result of Noguchi’s studies with the elder Baishi with a fluid presentation of exquisite works that transcend national boundaries.

Terri Nau in a patterned skirt and moto jacket.

Jill Rullkoetter and Aileen Hannah

Some guests stood out amidst the ink paintings, calligraphic works and sculptures that filled the galleries. Jewelry artist Terri Rau caught my eye in a vibrantly patterned mini skirt from Etsy. These full skirts have been seen on the runway for a few seasons now. Designers are modernizing the feminine silhouette by playing with different fabrics and textures, and juxtaposing them against tougher elements like Nau exhibits in her moto jacket and all black accessories.

Another stylish duo was the Frye’s own Jill Rullkoetter and friend Aileen Hannah. Hannah looked classic in an Audrey Hepburn-style dress by English designer, Voy. Rullkoetter stayed with the all-black theme in a shift dress from Japantown boutique, Momo.

Barbara Smith of B. Nichole Photography and Gabriele Giaquinto exuded sophistication (picture at top). Smith wore a Parisian fur-lined coat, which she accessorized with just a few strands of pearls. The deep plum shade of her hair complimented her glowing olive complexion. On her side, Giaquinto wore a beautifully constructed navy suit from Italian menswear retailer, Boggi Milano.

The Frye opening exhibits always draw an intriguing crowd and are a chance to explore artistic and intellectual exchanges. With nearly ten exhibitions openings a year, they are certainly an event not to be missed.