Lot 255

Pierre Asselin, Beach / Fire Island. 1979.

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Pierre Asselin, Beach / Fire Island. 1979.

Estimate: $800 - $1,200

Starting Bid: $600

(0 Bids)

by Swann Auction Galleries
August 13, 2026 10:30 AM EDT
Live Auction
104 East 25th Street
New York, NY, US 10010

Pierre Asselin

Beach / Fire Island. 1979
Offset lithograph poster.
A poster advertising "Beach," an all night party to benefit the Fire Island Pines Fire Department.

Conceived of as a fundraiser, with money going towards the purchase of a much needed to fire truck (the 500 or residences in The Pines at that time were primarily wooden structures), this legendary all-night beach party of 1979 proved not only to be successful - a new fire engine was purchased with the funds raised- but also was a seismic social event, breaking the mold and setting the standard for similar mega events and fundraisers for years to come.

Referred to as Studio 54 in the sand, the setting was designed by Scott Bromley (already famous for having designed the interior of studio 54), Fern Mallis and Ron Martin. The resulting beach setting was an architectural marvel and an unforgettable venue for an exceptional soiree.

Originally Donna Summer was slated to perform but when she backed out she was replaced by France Joli, who had shot to fame with her single "Come to Me," the Ritchie Family, Asha Puthli and Bonnie Pointer, of the Pointer sisters. Famous attendees included Andy Warhol, Calvin Klein and the Village People, in all over 3200 tickets were sold.

For such a large and influential event, very little original material remains. We could find no other copy of this poster on the market.

The design features the setting sun over the beach, settling into the horizon and the ocean.

  • Dimensions: 35 x 21 in. (88.9 x 53.3 cm.)
  • Medium: Offset lithograph poster.
  • Condition: Please contact the Specialist for the auction to request a condition report.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $149 $10
$150 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $5,999 $200
$6,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 $499,999 $20,000
$500,000 + $50,000