Diamonds are forever, but even the quintessential Material Girl will admit, Nylon has an irresistible appeal.  Young Afikim’s transatlantic committee couldn’t agree more – flitting between New York and London is de rigueur for many of its supporters.

This sky’s the limit theme was beautifully captured by several of the 49 pieces silently auctioned off at Afikim’s recent Art of Love cocktail fundraiser;  Without a doubt, the Milk Gallery’s sleek walls were the ideal canvas for Scott Birnbaum’s ‘Opening Sky’ and Brian Marcus’s ‘Birds’.

Through its network of afternoon centers across Israel, Afikim provides disadvantaged children with the tools and skill-sets to end the cycle of poverty.  Gabriella Hersham, the organization’s delightful Chair, expressed her gratitude to the artists for their generous donations and promised that a wire would be sent “immediately” after the event.

The evening’s highlight was the live auction staged by the gavel wielding Alexander Gilkes of Phillips de Pury.  His brand of dapper British charm boosted the benefit’s proceeds to over $85,000.

'Opening Sky' by Scott Birnbaum. Photo: Carly Otness/BFAnyc.com

Auctioneer Extraordinaire, Alexander Gilkes. Photo: Carly Otness/BFAnyc.com

Gabriella Hersham, NY Afikim Chair addressing the crowd. Photo: Carly Otness/BFAnyc.com