The Foundation is pleased to acknowledge the generosity of the patrons of the 125^th Anniversary Circle for their exceptional contribution to the success of the Renaissance Ball held by the Foundation in 2005 to celebrate the National Gallery of Canada’s 125^th Anniversary.  Attracting close to 500 visual art patrons and philanthropists from across Canada and abroad, the Ball raised over $1 million in net revenue.  The Government of Canada, through the then-Minister of Canadian Heritage, the Honourable Liza Frulla, matched this amount, thus creating a balanced blend of public and private funds for a total of more than $2,000,000.

The Renaissance Ball was recognized at the 9th Annual Canadian Event Industry Awards, as the “Best Fundraising Event” for 2005.