MM100 An Evening Honoring Marilyn Monroe at Sofia During Art Basel Miami

A Centennial Moment During Art Basel

During Miami Art Basel, Haute Living and Authentic Live unveiled MM100, the official Marilyn Monroe Centennial Kick Off, presented by Velocity Black. Hosted on Friday, December 5, the evening welcomed around 250 guests for an immersive celebration honoring one of the most iconic figures in cultural history through the artwork of Russell Young.

Set within Sofia inside the Palm Court Dome in the Miami Design District, the venue was transformed into a contemporary gallery for the night. With a dress code of gallery chic, guests arrived ready to experience art, culture, and conversation in a setting that blended Italian hospitality with modern design.

Photo Credit: Yale Gurney

An Intimate Opening

The evening began with a private, invitation only dinner presented by Velocity Black, offering select guests an exclusive first look at Russell Young’s Marilyn Monroe collection. The intimate setting created space for thoughtful conversation around Monroe’s legacy and Young’s bold, modern interpretation of her image.

Photo Credit: Yale Gurney

Photo Credit: Yale Gurney

The Gallery Comes to Life

As the night unfolded, the space opened to a larger reception, welcoming collectors, tastemakers, influencers and art enthusiasts. Young’s artworks were installed throughout the venue, transforming Sofia into a living gallery. The collection remained on view beyond the event, allowing for continued engagement during Art Basel week and beyond.

Guests were invited to explore the pieces more deeply, with trained staff on hand throughout the evening to guide conversations and provide insight into the artwork and acquisition opportunities.

Red Carpet and Reflection

A red carpet moment added ceremony and glamour beneath the Palm Court Dome, capturing the energy of the crowd.

Photo Credit: Yale Gurney

The evening paused for a toast led by Dana C. alongside Russell Young, honoring Marilyn Monroe’s lasting influence and the vision behind MM100.

Elevated Culinary and Cocktail Moments

Culinary offerings elevated the experience with a decadent cocktail reception by Sofia, featuring a charcuterie and caviar station complemented by Piper Heidsieck Champagne, alongside passed hors d’oeuvres and desserts throughout the night.

Photo Credit: Yale Gurney

The cocktail program paid tribute to Monroe with three signature creations: The Velvet Monroe, The Red Lip Classic, and Marilyn’s Fashion. A sculptural Piper ice installation anchored the bar, serving as both a visual centerpiece and a celebratory statement.

A Thoughtful Closing

As guests made their way out, black matte MM100 gift bags awaited, thoughtfully curated with artwork inserts, product collaborations, and Aurate cleaning cloths, extending the experience beyond the evening.

MM100 opened the Marilyn Monroe Centennial with a celebration that honored the past while embracing a modern cultural lens.