An eclectic group of artists and muses came together for one of the most anticipated annual galas of the creative arts fields—the “TriBeCa Ball 2004,” under the patronage of The Prince of Wales. Gala chairs included: Simone and David Levinson, Eileen Guggenheim, Russell Wilkinson, and Helen and Tim Schifter.

Held in Gotham Hall, the breathtaking turn-of-the-century ballroom (in a landmarked building), accented with limestone Roman pillars, handcrafted brass and marble work, a stained-glass domed ceiling, and a gilded chandelier, the event benefitted the New York Academy of Art, which this year has been celebrating Italian design and art, the inspiration for the ball’s theme: La Dolce Vita. The Academy is a nonprofit institution and a prime venue for artists, devoted to graduate studies and the advancement of painting, sculpture, and drawing.

Amidst the red fabric-draped table groupings, guests boogied to the sounds spun by DJ Tom Finn (of Studio 54 fame). A dessert course (courtesy of Amanda Lepore and “World Famous Bob”) was wheeled out on carts topped with black-gown-clad transgender blondes available to serve and cater to every need. How decadently yummy!

The Sheet ran into our former Senator, Alphonse D’Amato, with his new fiancée, attorney Katuria Smith. The usually “out-there” Senator looked so calm that we asked Katuria how she had managed to “tame him down.” She replied, “It wasn’t easy!” We asked Al if he missed the limelight of politics, and he confided that he’d recently had breakfast at The Regency with Senator Chuck Schumer. “I have no regrets and I enjoyed having breakfast with someone who beat me!” he quipped. When previously asked about the nearly 30-year age difference between his soon-to-be summer bride and him, Al told Lloyd Grove of the New York Daily News: “Love conquers all! How’s that, baby?” It’s La Dolce Vita!