Prince Harry recently spent an evening that will be etched in his memory at a New York City art gallery. This event was in support of his cherished charity, Sentebale. On December 4th, the 40-year-old Duke of Sussex stepped out at the Ki Smith Gallery. Here, he attended an intimate cocktail reception to officially kick off the "Friend" exhibit. This display features works by pioneers of Minimalism and Op Art, along with contemporary artists. The exhibit opens to the public on December 14th and runs until January 19th. A remarkable 100% of the gallery's proceeds from the sale of art will be donated to Sentebale. The showcase is free to attend, and visitors have the option to make on-site donations to the organization.

Expressions of Gratitude

Prince Harry expressed his deep gratitude at the event. He said to Ki Smith, the curator behind the exhibit, "I and we, and everybody at Sentebale, are hugely grateful for you pulling this together. You have been a joy, you and your team have been an absolute joy to work with, so we are massively grateful for that." He also shared his excitement about Rakuko Naito's work. "I already know that your grandmother is winning, when it comes to pieces sold, which considering, it isn't even open until next week. Well done, this is fantastic news." His words showed his genuine connection to the art and the charity.

Spirit of Art

Prince Harry emphasized the power of art. He said, "I am slightly new to the art world, so I’m not going to pretend as though I know something that I don’t, but what I do know is the ability for art to be able to convene and bring people together. And that is needed more than ever in today’s world. Everything we do at Sentebale is reflected through this art, and through you, and your values, and what I believe, the way you see the world. So again, an enormous thank you from all of us here for being you." This shows his understanding of how art can create connections and make a difference.

Spirited at the Event

The Duke of Sussex was in great spirits at the event. He forwent a tie with his suit as he mingled with both artists and guests. Attendees enjoyed Royal Salute cocktails and sampled charcuterie from Farm to People while taking in the stunning Op Art and Minimalist works on display. After introducing Smith, Harry listened intently from the front row, absorbing the 20-minute discussion on the intersection of art and social impact.

Origins and Mission of Sentebale

Prince Harry and his friend, Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, started Sentebale in 2006 in memory of their late mothers, Princess Diana and Queen Mother ‘Mamohato Bereng Seeiso. The organization works to support young people in Lesotho and Botswana, including those living with HIV/AIDS. It offers healthcare, education, vocational training, climate resilience and life skills. Exclusively speaking to PEOPLE at the launch party, Smith described Prince Harry as "one of the sweetest, humblest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. His heart is really in it."

Memorable Moments in Lesotho

Recounting a favorite memory from their time in Lesotho, Smith said, "One of the fun parts is that first night when everyone’s around the campfire, we’re in the middle of it and all the electricity goes off. And it was this really incredible moment because I always think the moments that are unrehearsed…We’re all people, we all made it work. We’re all here, we’re all living under the same life circumstances. I think that’s really cool. It was really humbling. And I think that that was a really great way to transition into an incredible trip."

Art and Philanthropy

The "Friend" exhibit features iconic works by Frank Stella, Bridget Riley and Tadaaki Kuwayama. The gallerist named the charitable exhibit after his late grandfather. The welcoming moniker for the exposition was inspired by the spirit of friendship. By donating proceeds from "Friend" to Sentebale, Smith endeavors to elevate the intersection of art and impact. A statement from the gallery said its team was "deeply moved" by the sense of optimism they saw during a previous visit to the charity's headquarters in Lesotho.

Collaboration and Community

In a statement shared with PEOPLE about "Friend" at the Ki Smith Gallery, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso said, "This collaboration with Ki Smith and his gallery is incredibly meaningful to the organization. Having Ki join us in Lesotho this past October to see Sentebale’s work firsthand, and to experience the creativity, resilience and determination of the young people we serve, was truly special." They also emphasized the spirit of inclusivity and community that lies at the heart of both Sentebale and the gallery.Prince Harry's night out at the gallery follows his appearance at the 2024 DealBook Summit and ahead of his wife Meghan Markle's red carpet moment at the 2024 Paley Honors Fall Gala. The event celebrated the career of their friend, Tyler Perry, who is a godfather to their daughter, Princess Lilibet. Prince Harry and Meghan also share son Prince Archie, and Perry opened his home to them when they relocated to California in 2020. "Friend" at the Ki Smith Gallery in New York City opens on December 14th and runs until January 19th. Guests can RSVP to attend at kismithgallery.com.