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An Evening of Music and Art in the Gardens 12th Annual Event Honoring Julie & Peter Cummings with the Ann Norton Award for Philanthropy

“As we look forward to presenting the Ann Norton Award for Philanthropy to Julie and Peter Cummings, whom many of you know are my parents, this evening holds a special place in my heart,” said Caroline Rafferty, Board Chair for Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens. “Their remarkable compassion, leadership and dedication to empowering others have profoundly shaped my life. Their philanthropy and service are driven by a genuine commitment to creating a better and more just world. It has been a privilege to witness and learn from them, and we are grateful for the journey we continue to share in service at Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens.” Mrs. Fisher and Mrs. Wright addressed guests underscoring the philanthropic leadership that earned the Cummings the evening’s honor. Their pivotal investment through The Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation Arts and Culture Fund at the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties established the Art, Music, and Healthy Hearts Program —now central to ANSG’s education efforts—doubling capacity for Title 1 students and strengthening partnerships, including with Palm Health Foundation, to support Indian Ridge School. Their support has also advanced professional development for staff, ensuring long-term sustainability, and played a key role in the Protecting a Legacy Campaign, restoring the Artist Studio Garden and Terrace. The evening featured a sunset cabaret performance by Miami-based singer/songwriter Leesa Richards, whose soulful blend of rock and R&B filled the two-acre garden. Guests also met 2026 Artist in Residence Kevin Barrett and viewed his exhibition, “Organic Abstraction: Contemporary Sculpture,” alongside Sylvia Schuster’s “Pathos” in the Norton House Gallery. Both exhibitions remain on view through June 2026. “Peter and I are deeply moved to be standing here tonight in a place that means so much to our family and to so many in this community,” said Mrs. Cummings. “This garden is an extraordinary

place. Not only because of its beauty, but because of the intention behind it. Ann Norton believed that art and nature together could do something that neither can do alone. They have the power to inspire, to heal and connect us to one another into something larger than ourselves. The fact that her vision is not only preserved but expanding is a testament to all of you here tonight. When Peter and I think of the Gardens, we think of Frances Fisher, who gave 11 years to this place with a level of commitment that is both rare and deeply inspiring. What she has built here is not just a restored garden, she has literally and figurately planted the seeds and laid the foundation that will hold this institution for years to come.” The Host Committee included Chairmen Christina and Ben Macfarland, Christine and Bill Aylward, Sarah and Tim Benitz, Danita DeHaney,

Peter and Julie Cummings

(West Palm Beach, Fla.) – Within the lush, tropical setting of Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens (ANSG), more than 200 guests gathered on March 18 for the annual An Evening of Music and Art in the Gardens. During the 12th annual Gardens Conservancy event, longtime Gardens supporters Julie and Peter Cummings were honored with the 2026 Ann Norton Award for Philanthropy, presented annually to individuals who advance the mission of ANSG and embrace Ann Norton’s vision for her legacy to our community. Co-Chairs for the evening included Gardens Conservancy Co-Founder and Board Vice Chair Frances Fisher and her husband Jeff, and Gardens Conservancy Co-Founder and longtime trustee Susan Wright and her husband Bob. Honorary Chairs were The Honorable Nancy G. Brinker, James “Chip” DiPaula, Laurie Silvers and Mitchell Rubenstein, and Lori and Bruce Gendelman.

Frances Fisher and Caroline Rafferty

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