GREEN & GLOVER: Masterpiece theater

The Phillips Collection, the District’s private art museum known for its wide array of modern and French impressionist paintings, held its annual gala Friday night, drawing some interesting art admirers out of the Washington woodwork.

We first bumped into Sen. Richard C. Shelby, Alabama Republican, brushing shoulders with the other $1,000-each high rollers in the garden for the pre-reception.

“I’m spouse trailing,” Mr. Shelby joked referring to his wife Annette, a former professor, and the apparent real art fan in the Shelby household.

Although Mr. Shelby said he was appreciative of “some of the Flemish and Dutch artists,” he deferred to his wife on all matters of home decor.

Mrs. Shelby told us the couple own some sketches by renowned French artist Pierre Auguste Renoir.

Same for former Sen. Ted Stevens, Alaska Republican, who was flanked by his wife Catherine. Mrs. Stevens said one would be hard pressed to find a wall in their home not decorated with their favorite Alaskan landscapes. She says they also have some interesting ice sculpture pieces.

Overhearing our conversation with the Stevenses, Rep. Roy Blunt, Missouri Republican, noted that he must be “the only public official here who does not have a private art collection.”

Don’t feel too bad, congressman. We see you at so many parties. You’re invited to everything, despite your art deficiencies.

“You don’t need to say that,” he retorted with journalist Margaret Carlson standing nearby.

OK, sir. Your socializing secrets are safe with us and Miss Carlson.

In a rare G2 conversation, we engaged in girl talk with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who attended the gala with her husband Martin.

Mrs. Ginsburg, attired in a mandarin-style jacket with dainty white crocheted evening gloves, said she was especially enamored with the work of Henri Matisse.

The lone woman on the high court added that she appreciates women artists and seeing symphony orchestras conducted by women.

Bonded by bus

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