Inside the de Young Museum’s Glamorous Gala and the Return of Late Night Editions

the author of the story poses at the entrance of the Sir Isaac Julien exhibit

Patrick Craig

A few weeks ago, I had the chance to attend my first Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco gala at the de Young Museum. It’s just a stone’s throw from my apartment, but that night, it felt like stepping into an entirely different world. The museum’s photo wing was cleverly sectioned off for guests, transformed into a flash-friendly playground with immersive photo booths, 360-degree stop-motion cameras, and pop-up installations around every corner.

the lit, avant garde doorway into the dinner area. — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

The crowd came dressed to impress. With an open bar flowing and buffet tables offering a rotating selection of hot appetizers, the atmosphere was vibrant and full of movement. At times, it was packed to the point of being a bit overwhelming, with limited ventilation and no outdoor space to escape the heat. Still, the energy carried the night.

Ravyn Lenae poses looking over her shoulder — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

A major highlight of the evening was a live performance by rising R&B star Ravyn Lenae, who delivered a rousing set alongside her guitarist and drummer. Known for her genre-blending sound that fuses neo-soul, electro-R&B, and funk, Lenae has been steadily building a devoted following since her breakout EP Crush, produced by Steve Lacy. Her latest single “Love Me Not” showcases her signature mix of dreamy melodies and emotional depth. A classically trained vocalist and alum of Chicago’s Young Chicago Authors program, which also shaped artists like Chance the Rapper and Noname, Lenae brought both polish and passion to her performance, leaving a lasting impression.

Ravyn Lenae's crowd wave their hands in the air — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

Inside the galleries, two standout exhibitions elevated the evening. Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm showcased personal, never-before-seen images of the Beatles through McCartney’s own lens. These were not the polished press shots we’ve all seen before. They were raw, intimate moments of the band on tour, in the studio, and on vacation, filled with joy and striking vulnerability.

black and white photos of the beatles at the exhibit — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

Just across the way, Isaac Julien: I Dream a World delivered a cinematic and emotional experience, merging film, music, and visual art to explore identity, politics, and power. It was a fitting anchor for a night that celebrated both culture and community.

a gallery wall collaged with dozens of black and white photographs on a blue background — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

Now, the de Young Museum is opening its doors once again for an after-hours experience that builds on the success of that night. Late Night Editions: Isaac Julien returns on Thursday, June 12, inviting the public to experience the museum in a whole new way.

the author of the article poses in a gold dress with a white fur cropped jacket on the grand stairwell — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

Start your evening outside with specialty cocktails and eats from Off the Grid food trucks. If you show up early, you might even snag a free bao from The Chinita Baker, available to the first 200 guests. Then head inside and let the IN SESSION DJ Collective guide your journey through the museum with live sets, curated vibes, and room to dance beneath the art.

Models swearing Thom Browne fashion pose together — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

Along with the exhibition itself, expect sounds by Nina Sol, Kilo.Wav, Mackswell, Katjabba, Travie Bobbito, and a back-to-back set from Cocoa Crescendo and Sage.

two women sit sketching in front of a large painting — *Photo: Patrick Craig*

This is not your average museum night. Whether you’re coming for the art, the music, the food, or the atmosphere, Late Night Editions is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most unforgettable evenings.