When pitted against a Frank Stella or a Hans Hofmann, even the most spectacular Oscar de la Renta gown simply must take a backseat. So it was at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Grand Gala Ball where millions of dollars worth of contemporary paintings were pulled from storage to line the walls of Cullinan Hall and the Upper Brown Pavilion.

In a break with tradition, gala chairs Carol and Mike Linn eschewed a froufrou decorative theme in lieu of the evening that saluted the museum's collection. They also mixed things up. Guests arrived at the original entrance to the Caroline Weiss Law Building and moved to the spacious Cullinan Hall for the pre-dinner schmoozing and preening. All agreed that it was a much better fit for the 500 guests than the traditional sardine squish of the museum lobby where the reception is typically held.

For "A Celebration of American Art," the MFAH spotlighted Stella's Damascus Gate (Stretch Variation III) and other monumental works by the innovator of avant-garde art in America. The artist was in attendance as guest of MFAH board chair Cornelia Long and Meredith Long. Joining them at the table was MFAH curator Alison de Lima Greene, close friend of the artist. It was Stella's second Grand Gala Ball. The artist created decorative murals for the 1982 "Stella Under the Stars" evening, a soirée that Ann and Charles Duncan recalled with relish while praising Friday night's art-filled setting.

 The fashion

Of course, while some would like to think that all eyes were on the amazing artworks, the designer gowns did command a certain amount of attention, undeniable at the premiere social event of the fall season. And, yes, Oscar was at the forefront. Sheridan Williams and Pat Breen arrived in identical billowing, beaded gowns. (Dancie Ware had purchased the same, also from Neiman Marcus, but returned it when she learned that others had the gown planned for the MFAH gala.) Diane Lokey Farb wore a similar frothy Oscar confection, though more elaborately detailed. Her astonishing necklace was a show-stopper.

Carol Linn selected a navy blue jacketed gown by Rene Ruiz from Tootsies. Also on the Oscar team was Elizabeth Petersen in a stunning beaded, column gown. Cynthia Petrello chose a Bottega Veneta in mocha-hued satin and Kelli Blanton a shimmering water color blue gown by Carlos Miele. Vivian Wise was the belle of the ball in a dramatic burgundy gown by Monique Lhuillier.

 The bottom line

The national economic slump was not evident on this successful night. Final tally for the black-tie gala surpassed $1.2 million.

"Not a bad number for a little night of dance," said museum director Peter Marzio. In his brief remarks, Marzio pointed out that the art riches on display that evening represented only one-half of one percent of the museum's modern and contemporary collection. (Could there be a new building in MFAH's future? Those swooning over the art on this night would think so.)

The museum's collection of American art is detailed in the new book American Arts & Philanthropy: Twenty Years of Collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, introduced that evening and presented as party favors for attendees. MFAH patron Charles Butt, H-E-B chairman and CEO, funded that generous gesture. Joining Butt at his table were Susie and Sanford Criner and their family.

 The scenario

With more room to work in and gala chairs with open minds, Richard Flowers of The Events Co. created a contemporary environment in Cullinan Hall where white leather, kidney-shaped sofas provided seating around the central bar. Upstairs in the dining area, sturdy acrylic chairs and tables, centered with geometrically-configured florals, offered a different perspective on the black-tie gala.

In yet another break with tradition, Tony's, the Linn's favorite, provided the sumptuous multi-course dinner that had guests praising the change. Highlight was the creative appetizer course presented with tiny recreations of Stella's Damascus Gate in corners of the plate.

Saving pennies for museum coffers and providing just as much musical entertainment as big-name out-of-town talent was Yvonne Washington & the Mix featuring Tru Soul.

 The cast

Collectors and MFAH patrons Michelle and Frank Hevrdejs (who chair the 2011 Grand Gala Ball) led the heady contingent that included artist James Surls (in blue jeans, black T-shirt and tux jacket), Laura and John Arnold, Courtney and Bo Hopson, Jana and Scotty Arnoldy, Phillip Sarofim, Martha Long, Rose and Harry Cullen, Kelli Kickerillo and Todd Forrester, Jeanie Kilroy and Kathy and Marty Goossen, Alice and Philip Burgieres Debbie and John Daugherty, and Soraya and Scott McClelland.

Also in the mix were Houston Texans owner Bob McNair and wife Janice and Melissa and Jamey Rootes, Houston Texans president, who could have only been dreaming of the team's 3-1 record two days before kickoff of the Raiders' game.