The Art of Farming

Sotheby’s Auction House hosted New York City’s first-ever edible auction in September—with all proceeds going toward two NYC charities.

“The Art of Farming” was a snazzy way to bring together local farmers, purveyors, celebrity chefs, food industry experts and high-profile New Yorkers who have a shared interest in the vitality of greenmarkets. Just some of the gems on the auction block were ten crates filled with heirloom vegetables donated by 40 tri-state area farmers, with the contents going to community food programs in the city. Guests also bid on some incredible food and drink experiences, such as summer farm internships for students, field trips for school classes, celebrity chef dinners, vegetable futures and farm-to-table dinners. 

Cocktails and local hors d’oeuvres courtesy of renowned restaurant Rouge Tomate were served to 300 guests before the auction began and, afterward, more than 130 guests were invited to Sotheby’s tenth-floor galleries for an exclusive dinner designed by a group of celebrity chefs, including Jeff Gimmel of Swoon Kitchenbar in Hudson, New York; Jean-Georges Vongerichten, chef of ABC Kitchen; Roberto Alicea, executive chef of Andaz 5th Avenue; and Myriam Eberhardt, pastry chef of DBGB Kitchen and Bar. The event raised almost $250,000 that benefited two local charities: GrowNYC New Farmers Development Project, which identifies, educates and supports immigrants with agricultural experience to become local producers and establish farms in the region; and The Sylvia Center, a program that inspires and teaches children to eat well through hands-on experiences at Katchkie Farm and in school and community centers all over New York City.—Denise Shoukas

Denise Shoukas is a regular foodspring.com contributor and is the author of foodspring’s food forager blog.

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