Amref’s ArtBall: Celebrating African Art
Brooklyn, NY – On a vibrant Saturday evening, May 4, 2024, the intersection of African culture and philanthropy took center stage at INDUSTRIA, in Brooklyn, NY, as Amref’s Health Africa hosted its annual ArtBall and accompanying art auction. This prestigious event, chaired by Carmelo Anthony, Spike, and Tonya Lewis Lee, served as a platform to celebrate and showcase the remarkable talent of the African continent while supporting a noble cause.
The guest list boasted luminaries from various fields, including art, media, and philanthropy. Renowned figures such as Kehinde Wiley, Lindsey Peoples, Earl Nurse, and Storm Ascher graced the occasion, adding to the event’s allure and significance. The presence of such esteemed individuals underscored the importance of bridging cultural appreciation with charitable endeavors.
At the heart of the evening was the presentation of the Rees Visionary Award to world-renowned artist Kehinde Wiley, a fitting tribute to his groundbreaking contributions to the art world. In a gesture of generosity, Wiley announced a substantial $700,000 donation to Amref, further solidifying the symbiotic relationship between creativity and philanthropy.
Central to the event’s purpose was the art auction, featuring an impressive array of 42 pieces of Contemporary African, Pan-African, and Black Art from both emerging and established artists. Curated by a team of experts including Storm Ascher, Cierra Britton, and Nadia Nascimento, the auction promised an eclectic mix of talent and creativity. Notable artists such as Hank Willis Thomas, Adama Delphine Fawundu, and Rudy Shepherd contributed their works, with all proceeds going towards Amref’s healthcare initiatives across Africa.
Before the main festivities, an exclusive dinner and salon set the stage for engaging conversations and insightful discussions. Highlights included a fireside chat between Kehinde Wiley and Marc Lacey, Managing Director of the New York Times, offering guests a deeper understanding of the intersection between art and social impact.
As the evening unfolded, guests were treated to a culinary journey courtesy of YESBABE and Amazing Graze NY, accompanied by a selection of fine wines and spirits provided by Ten To One, Martell, and iBest Wines. Partnerships with esteemed organizations such as Pfizer and the Open Society Foundation underscored the event’s significance within the philanthropic landscape.
Throughout the night, the vibrant sounds of FON Sound System filled the air, complemented by a mesmerizing live performance by Les Ballet Afrik, captivating guests and adding to the atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie.
In summary, the Amref Health Africa ArtBall served as a testament to the power of art to inspire change and transform lives. By uniting creativity with philanthropy, the event not only celebrated the rich cultural heritage of Africa but also reaffirmed Amref’s commitment to improving healthcare access and fostering a healthier, more resilient Africa for generations to come.
Photos courtesy of Maximus Communications