MoMA’s director, Glenn Lowry, led the early celebration of David Rockefeller’s 100th birthday last night, 2 June, at a party held appropriately in the Sculpture Garden. Named after his mother, Abby Aldrich, she gave birth to the great philanthropist who is the museum’s honorary chairman in the Rockefeller family’s townhouse, which used to stand on the very spot. “David was here at the founding of MoMA,” Lowry reminded the assembled guests, stressing that he’s been essential to its growth and vitality. In addition to his generosity towards MoMA, Rockefeller—who turns 100 on 12 June—has given vast sums to other institutions including Harvard University, which received $100m from him in 2008. The college showed its appreciation by sending its cappella group, the Harvard Crocodillos, to serenade him last night, while guests ate cake decorated with a picture of Rockefeller’s boat (he is also a noted campaigner for the protection of the world’s oceans). MoMA president Marie-Josée Kravis, expressed her appreciation and praised Rockefeller’s impressive stamina. “He stays up until 1am when he goes on trips with the international council,” she said, revealing that a martini is the sprightly centenarian’s tipple of choice.
