A Virginal Barbeque

(NEW YORK) 303 Gallery knows the value of a good summer party, and last night's barbeque of hot dogs, mini ice cream cones--and a performance by The Virgins--had plenty of seasonally-appropriate moments. "It's very difficult to find space that's suitable for the artists and the projects we want to do, so we're really lucky in finding it. This year launches our 25th anniversar,y but it really starts in March," said gallery owner Lisa Spellman. Her space was under construction--a Bobcat peeked out from behind the stage. "We'll start with a double show in September with Doug Aitken," Spellman continued. "This will be mostly open because we have a lot of artists that do huge installations."

And when The Virgins perform, the crowds descend. Self-proclaimed "huge fans" included Jessica Stam and Julie Gilhart, as well as Cynthia Rowley and her daughter Kit Clementine. "She's knows all the words," the proud mom explained. "At least she's a fan of the virgins as opposed to the non-virgins!"

Kirsten Dunst made an early appearance and stuck around for the majority of the night, after securing her earplugs (a gift from Karen Kilimik). Another gift from the artist? A selection of Fairy Food, including chocolate chip and sugar cookies.

The celebration was two-fold. Thurston Moore, a longtime friend of Spellman who served as DJ, was celebrating his 50th birthday. He was regaled with huge ballons and an equally oversized cake. "It feels like I'm so on the spot, but it's great!" he quipped after a rousing house rendition of "Happy Birthday."
BIANCA POSTERLI