On a radiant evening in the heart of New York City, the National Arts Club opened its storied doors to a celebration that blended cinematic history with a noble mission. This 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to fostering the fine arts and education, hosted an unforgettable event to support the city’s vibrant arts community. Consequently, the evening honored the legendary costume designer Edith Head and underscored the club’s commitment to nurturing creativity and learning. With a rich program, a stellar guest, and a heartfelt cause, the night was a testament to the transformative power of art.

The National Arts Club: A Beacon for Creativity

Founded in 1898, the National Arts Club has long been a sanctuary for artists, offering more than 150 free multidisciplinary arts programs annually to the public. Located at 15 Gramercy Park South, this cultural gem provides a haven for painters, sculptors, writers, musicians, and actors, fostering a community that thrives on collaboration and innovation. Moreover, the club’s mission extends beyond its walls, supporting the artistic community through exhibitions, performances, and educational initiatives. For instance, its outreach programs bring arts education to underserved schools, ensuring that creativity flourishes in every corner of the city.

Emerging Talent

The club’s commitment to serving artists and the public alike is unwavering. Offering a space where creative minds can connect has become a cornerstone of New York’s cultural landscape. Furthermore, the National Arts Club champions emerging talent, providing grants and opportunities for young artists to shine. Thus, events like this one not only celebrate artistic legends but also fund the club’s mission to make the arts accessible to all—a blessing for those who live in the New York City area.

Edith Head: A Cinematic Legend Unveiled

The evening’s centerpiece was a tribute to Edith Head, Hollywood’s most celebrated costume designer. With a nearly six-year career, Head designed costumes for over 1,000 films, earning a record-setting eight Academy Awards. Her iconic creations adorned stars like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, and Elizabeth Taylor, shaping the visual language of cinema. For example, her work on Sabrina (1954) gave Audrey Hepburn an ethereal elegance, while her designs for The Heiress (1949) captured the stark emotional depth of Olivia de Havilland’s character.

Head’s journey to stardom was as remarkable as her designs. Born in 1897 in San Bernardino, California, she initially taught French before a chance encounter led her to sketch costume designs for Paramount Pictures in 1924. Despite having no formal training, her keen eye for detail and ability to enhance a character’s narrative through clothing propelled her to fame. One charming anecdote recalls her work on The Sting (1973), where she insisted on hand-dyeing Robert Redford’s suits to achieve the perfect 1930s patina—a testament to her meticulous craft. Another story highlights her humility: despite her accolades, she often credited the actors for bringing her designs to life, famously saying, “I just make the clothes; they make the magic.”

A Conversation with Susan Claassen: Bringing Edith Head to Life

The highlight of the evening was a captivating event titled A Conversation with Edith Head, featuring Susan Claassen, who has portrayed Head in a one-woman theatrical performance for over 40 years. Claassen, a veteran actress, first embodied Head in 1981, and her performance has since become a beloved tribute to the designer’s legacy. On this night, she received an unprecedented 35 Academy Award nominations and won eight Oscars for Costume Design—a fitting honor for her dedication.

Claassen’s portrayal was nothing short of mesmerizing. Dressed in Head’s signature look—tailored suit, dark glasses, and a sleek bob—she brought the designer’s wit and wisdom to life. “Edith Head has been a dream come true,” Claassen shared, her voice trembling with emotion. “I first got the idea many years ago while watching a television biography of Edith Head. Literally, I did a double-take. My physical resemblance to Edith Head was uncanny. The more I watched, the more I knew there was a story to be told.” Based on Head’s legendary career, her performance transported the audience to Hollywood’s golden age, where costumes were as vital to storytelling as the script itself.

Following the conversation, Claassen joined attendees for a dinner, graciously answering questions about her role and Head’s impact. One guest asked about Head’s creative process, to which Claassen replied with a twinkle in her eye, “Edith always said she designed for the character, not the actor—she wanted the clothes to tell the story.” Another attendee inquired about Head’s favorite project, prompting Claassen to share that Head cherished her work on Roman Holiday (1953), where she crafted Audrey Hepburn’s transformation from princess to free spirit. Each table honored one of the films Head designed costumes for, adding a sentimental touch to the evening.

A Night of Learning and Connection

The event was more than a tribute—it was a masterclass in cinematic history. Attendees learned an “awful lot” about Head’s contributions, from her innovative designs to her collaborative spirit. For example, her work on All About Eve (1950) showcased her ability to reflect Bette Davis’s sharp-edged ambition through sleek, commanding gowns. Similarly, her costumes for The Heiress used muted tones to mirror the character’s emotional restraint, a subtle yet powerful choice.

Moreover, the evening fostered a sense of community among art lovers. Guests mingled over dinner, sharing their admiration for Head’s legacy and the National Arts Club’s mission. One attendee remarked, “It was a fabulous evening—I learned so much about Edith Head and the artistry behind costume design.” Another noted the warmth of the experience, saying, “Susan and her team gave us a stellar glimpse of what it would be like to have dinner with Edith Head herself.”

The Lasting Impact of the National Arts Club

This event exemplified the National Arts Club’s role as a cultural catalyst. By honoring Edith Head, the club celebrated a titan of the arts and raised funds to support its educational programs. These initiatives ensure that future generations can access the arts through free exhibitions or workshops in underserved communities. Additionally, the club’s commitment to preserving artistic heritage—through events like this one—keeps the legacies of figures like Head alive, inspiring new artists to dream big.

The National Arts Club’s work reminds us that art has the power to educate, connect, and uplift. As the evening drew to a close, guests left with a renewed appreciation for Head’s genius and the club’s mission. The photos from the event, capturing Claassen in character and the attendees’ joy, serve as a cherished memento of a night when history, art, and philanthropy intertwined.

The National Arts Club’s tribute to Edith Head was a triumph of storytelling and community. It illuminated the brilliance of a Hollywood icon while advancing a noble cause. It was an evening of glamour, learning, and inspiration for those who attended—a perfect reflection of the club’s enduring legacy.

The following are photos from this event. Enjoy!

So check out some of the movies for which Edith designed the costumes, and you’ll witness this great designer’s work.

Night of Glamour and Giving: The National Arts Club Honors Edith Head

The National Arts Club

15 Gramercy Park South
New York, NY 10003