ROM Immortal Gala: Forces of Nature

Honouring John Bianchini and Edward Burtynsky, O.C.

for their enduring contributions to shaping humanity's relationship with the natural world

MARGARET ATWOOD, C.C.
Honorary Chair and Force of Nature

CO-CHAIRS
Helen Burstyn, C.M. and Amy Burstyn Fritz
Aerial view of rice terraces Photo © Edward Burtynsky, courtesy Nicholas Metivier Gallery, Toronto

About

Established in 2025, the ROM Immortal Gala returns for an immersive night at the Museum, offering exclusive after-dark access to some of its most iconic galleries and spaces. A newly imagined lounge experience sets the stage for a dynamic and unforgettable celebration inspired by Forces of Nature.

Drawing on the exceptional creativity and scholarship found in the Museum’s world-class collection of artworks, cultural objects, and natural history specimens, the ROM Immortal Gala: Forces of Nature Gala honours John Bianchini and Edward Burtynsky, O.C., for their transformative contributions to environmental stewardship and innovation. 

ROM IMMORTAL GALA

An unforgettable celebration inspired by Forces of Nature on November 2, 2026.

The evening features the ROM Immortal Award, honouring two visionary leaders whose creativity, innovation, and determination have left an enduring mark on their fields.

The reception begins at 6:30 p.m. and offers guests exclusive access to remarkable treasures from the Museum’s collections, alongside curated culinary and handcrafted cocktails. 

Guests will enjoy intimate seating within private lounges, offering a unique dining and conversation experience.

Dinner will feature several distinctive food stations for an exceptional culinary experience.

Black tie, and inspired by nature.

John Bianchini and Edward Burtynsky looking at artwork. Photo © Robert Leslie

HONOURING JOHN BIANCHINI AND EDWARD BURTYNSKY

for their enduring contributions to shaping humanity's relationship with the natural world

John Bianchini is a leader in sustainable engineering and the Chair and CEO of Hatch, a global engineering company committed to delivering innovative and responsible solutions for a rapidly changing world. 

Canadian artist Edward Burtynsky, O.C., is one of the world’s most influential contemporary photographers, whose internationally acclaimed work examines the profound impact of industry on the natural environment and challenges audiences to reconsider humanity’s relationship with the planet.

Longtime friends, John and Ed share a deep respect for art, nature, and environmental stewardship, reflecting the spirit of the 2026 ROM Immortal Gala: Forces of Nature.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

MARGARET ATWOOD

Honorary Gala Chair and Force of Nature

We are honoured to welcome Margaret Atwood, C.C., as Honorary Chair of the ROM Immortal Gala: Forces of Nature. A celebrated author, environmental advocate, and cultural icon, Margaret Atwood is truly a force of nature in her own right, inspiring generations through her imagination, intellect, and commitment to the future of our planet.

ROM Immortal Gala Committee

Our sincere thanks to the ROM Immortal Gala Committee: 
Helen Burstyn, C.M., and Amy Burstyn Fritz (Co-Chairs)

Suresh Pal Singh Bhalla • Shikha Kasal • Josh Kay • Anne Maggisano • Heather Ogden • Roly Browning Watt • Jeff Willner

Sponsorship Inquiries

Sponsorship Opportunities

To explore sponsorship options, please contact ROMGala@rom.on.ca. 

 

SUPPORT ROM

DONATE HERE

The ROM Immortal Gala is just one way to support the Royal Ontario Museum. Every year, countless visitors engage with a wide range of exhibitions, programs, and experiences at ROM—many made possible through the extraordinary support of donors like you.

Image of ROM Weston Entrance for our ROM Immortal Gala: Forces of Nature

Other Programs

View All
Meiji period “Flowers of a Hundred Worlds (Momoyogusa 百々世草), vol. 1” by Kamisaka Sekka (1866 - 1942), album of woodblock prints; ink and colour on paper, 1909-10, Japan, 2001.78.1. © ROM. This acquisition was made possible by a generous grant from the ROM Foundation.
Program
Bishop White Committee: Friends of East Asia
Support the Bishop White Committee! Help preserve East Asian heritage and promote cultural exchange. Donate, become a member, or attend events—every contribution makes a difference. The Bishop White Committee: Friends of East Asia supports ROM in preserving and promoting East Asian art, history, and culture. Named after Bishop William C. White, a pioneering scholar of Chinese art, our committee fosters appreciation through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural initiatives. By engaging donors, volunteers, and the community, we help expand the East Asian collections and share stories
A group of Syrian children smile and wave Canadian flags in front of the ROM’s Schad Gallery of Biodiversity
Program
Community Access (ROMCAN)
Established in 2008, the ROM Community Access Network (ROMCAN) is ROM’s commitment to removing financial, social and cultural barriers for diverse communities to access the museum. Through the three pillars of social inclusion-we commit to being an institution that is reflective of, and in service to, diverse communities. Thanks to ROMCAN, ROM makes available 100,000 free visits every year. However, the defining feature of ROMCAN goes beyond just free admission, but rather, ROMCAN is about creating, strengthening and maintaining close collaboration with community groups across Ontario to
A young couple smile whiling looking at a picture the man is pointing at.
Program
Member Previews
Members enjoy previews of select exhibition and gallery openings.
Meiji period “Flowers of a Hundred Worlds (Momoyogusa 百々世草), vol. 1” by Kamisaka Sekka (1866 - 1942), album of woodblock prints; ink and colour on paper, 1909-10, Japan, 2001.78.1. © ROM. This acquisition was made possible by a generous grant from the ROM Foundation.
Program
Bishop White Committee: Friends of East Asia
Support the Bishop White Committee! Help preserve East Asian heritage and promote cultural exchange. Donate, become a member, or attend events—every contribution makes a difference. The Bishop White Committee: Friends of East Asia supports ROM in preserving and promoting East Asian art, history, and culture. Named after Bishop William C. White, a pioneering scholar of Chinese art, our committee fosters appreciation through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural initiatives. By engaging donors, volunteers, and the community, we help expand the East Asian collections and share stories
A group of Syrian children smile and wave Canadian flags in front of the ROM’s Schad Gallery of Biodiversity
Program
Community Access (ROMCAN)
Established in 2008, the ROM Community Access Network (ROMCAN) is ROM’s commitment to removing financial, social and cultural barriers for diverse communities to access the museum. Through the three pillars of social inclusion-we commit to being an institution that is reflective of, and in service to, diverse communities. Thanks to ROMCAN, ROM makes available 100,000 free visits every year. However, the defining feature of ROMCAN goes beyond just free admission, but rather, ROMCAN is about creating, strengthening and maintaining close collaboration with community groups across Ontario to
A young couple smile whiling looking at a picture the man is pointing at.
Program
Member Previews
Members enjoy previews of select exhibition and gallery openings.