Lotus Club Dinner for Ralph Rucci

I had another lovely evening at the Lotus Club this past Tuesday evening. There was a state dinner in honor of American fashion designer Ralph Rucci.

The following was written by the curator of a show of his work at Kent State University, a place where my dad had also been invited to lecture and draw in the recent past.

"Steadfastly, Ralph Rucci develops his techniques and pushes his own boundaries. He is an idealist who aims for perfection. With intellectual rigor and a boundless love of his craft, he has risen quietly in the ranks of designers who matter. Since the inception of his label, Chado, in 1994, he has drawn a sophisticated international clientele that was expanded in 2002 when he began presenting Haute Couture in Paris. As the world begins to pay attention, Ralph Rucci continues to follow the core principles behind Chado, a Japanese tea ceremony that involves life-long learning, respect, grace and tranquility.
Impervious to fads and to the increased theatricality of the couture world, Mr. Rucci's work mirrors his peaceful and introspective ways and draws inspiration from a wide range of sources. Creative construction is at the center of his design philosophy, but he also pays close attention to the properties of fabrics and to the ideas of the talented individuals who surround him. His roots run deep. He stands on the shoulders of great designers such as Balenciaga, Vionnet and Grès, as well as numerous creators and artists. Whether he draws from his own art work or that of Renaissance masters, he has the ability to synthesize and actualize his sources to create understated yet intricate and highly individualistic collections.
The quality of Ralph Rucci's work is exceptional in both his ready-to-wear and couture garments. His trademark meandering seams and gussets allow for better fit and ease of movement and, like most of the hand processes he and his staff develop, are a great source of pride. While Mr. Rucci is well-known and admired throughout the international fashion community for his impeccable garments, the Kent State University Museum exhibition represents the first major public display of his work. Join us and see what happens when technique, impeccable fit and quality unite with originality, clarity and joy. Look beyond the ordinary and experience the majestic, the serene, the subtle universe of Ralph Rucci."

Anne Bissonnette, Curator

My parent's neighbor, former Joffrey ballet dancer and international choreographer, Margo Sappington came with me and helped me appreciate a snippet of my father's world.

My other guest was a former student of my dad's, Inge Poslitur, who had come directly from an award ceremony in Albany. I know my dad would be so pleased at her accomplishments.

As the chairman of the Art Committee of the Lotus Club, Audrey Amdersky introduced Mr. Rucci, she paid a wonderful tribute to my dad. It was very moving, and I did cry. At the last Lotus Club event, my dad and I had planned to attend these functions together, which I would have so enjoyed.

I continue to meet his amazing friends. One couple, the Thompsons, were familiar in name to me. My mom and dad had been invited to attend a Christmas afternoon tea with them, which I am so thankful they opted out of to be able to join us in PA. I know my dad wanted to go since he had made the commitment, but I assured him they would understand his desire to join family for Christmas (which they did). It was another gift...to meet them and tell them how much my dad had wanted to join them and was honored by their invitation.

I look forward to stepping into my dad's world and getting to know and love him more.

Peace.