LIC Fire Threatens Star-Studded Art Gala

All the big names in the art world were gathered in a converted warehouse on 9th Street between 43rd and 44th Avenues in LIC last night when a fire in the tented rear yard facing 10th Street threatened to end the evening before the first plate of gravlax appetizer had been served. Not to fear: New York’s bravest were on the scene in a matter of minutes and quickly put out the malfunctioning generator that had created the alarming billows of smoke on the roof where the likes of Matthew Barney and Chuck Close had been enjoying scenic views of the setting sun behind the Manhattan skyline. No one was hurt, but diners at the Foundation for Contemporary Arts gala did have to go without heat. Their moods were warmed, however, by the news that each would be leaving the party with his or her own limited edition Jasper Johns print made especially for the occasion.