Angels of the Arts Award
Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem are quintessential modern philanthropists. Both are successful entrepreneurs — Maria was the principal force behind Gucci’s integration into American department stores, and Jan was the founder of an international book publishing firm and Napa Valley’s renowned Clos Pegase winery. They married in 2012, and since their union have devoted their energies and resources to charitable causes close to their hearts. They have supported programs ranging from education and medical research to public television — and most especially they have embraced their passion for the arts.
Illustrative of their innovative philanthropy, they made a transformational gift to UC Davis to found the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art, recently recognized by ARTnews as among “The 25 Best Museum Buildings of the Past 100 Years.”
They have provided vital support to the San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Symphony, as well as to arts organizations as varied as Carlo Ponti’s Los Angeles Virtuoso Orchestra, Michael Fabiano’s ArtSmart, Prince Charles’ Royal Drawing School in London, and Teatro del Maggio Musicale in Maria’s native Florence.
Since Festival Napa Valley’s inception, Maria and Jan have been core supporters, even in the days before their union. Their relationship flourished under the warm skies, natural beauty, and joyful atmosphere of Napa Valley. It is fitting and appropriate for Festival Napa Valley to honor them.
Maria and Jan are founding patrons of Festival Napa Valley’s Vocal Arts Series, which today has grown to become the Manetti Shrem Opera Program, encompassing a summer vocal conservatory, fully staged and semi-staged opera performances, and the Manetti Shrem Opera Prize, awarded annually to two rising star vocalists and providing performance opportunities and a career development grant.
Maria and Jan make so much possible for artists, cultural institutions, and audiences. They contribute in immeasurable ways to making the world a better place for all.