The Tamesis
As we enter mid-April, New York’s bleak weather finally gave way to a mild 85 degrees on Wednesday, creating the perfect atmosphere for the Bronx Museum’s annual Spring Gala and Art Auction. The beloved institution has gathered a room full of artists and art lovers ready to wholeheartedly support upcoming initiatives and programs.
Mickalene Thomas, Ella Emhoff, Danielle Falls, rapper and actor Joey Bada$$, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson and Michael McGinnis all attended the celebration, honoring artist Awol Erizku, cultural patron Lois Plehn and a tribute to KidSuper designer and artist Colm Dillane.
Upon arrival on the Tribeca rooftop, an elevator whisked guests to the alfresco event space for a prime-time cocktail reception, with waiters carrying trays of Beluga caviar and Veuve Clicquot. “Tonight was a beautiful night and it made me feel less nervous before speaking,” said multi-platinum artist A$AP Ferg, who presented Erizku with the Museum’s Art Visionary Award. Artist, singer and songwriter Young Paris echoed Ferg’s sentiments: “I appreciate the museum’s focus on culture and the positive things happening in and around the Bronx.”
After sunset, attendees were directed downstairs to the main event, where more than 40 tables were decorated with black and gold table settings and floral accents. This was followed by a three-course dinner, including mascara, steak, Chilean sea bass, strawberry and chocolate mousse tart. “I value everything we do and the importance of what we do for the Bronx,” museum trustee and gala co-chair Annie B. Taylor said during the dinner. “We are so lucky to be able to do such important work.” Jeanice Parker, art curator and owner of the Four Cees brand, agreed, “Events like this are necessary. This is my second time attending, and each time the decor, atmosphere, and crowds are amazing.”
Between the high-profile winners – McGinnis presented Prine with the Cultural Ambassador Award and Dylan was awarded the Innovator Award by Joy Bada$$ – the evening’s festivities continued with an exciting auction overseen by Phillips’ Sarah Krueger. Thomas’ personal studio tour bid was $10,000, and Ann Craven’s artwork sold for more than $20,000, ultimately won by Taylor. “Art is very important to Mind Games,” said Dorian Braxton, senior director of global communications for Mind Games Luxury Fragrances, the evening’s official gift sponsor. “As a native New Yorker, seeing this kind of community service in action is what the company and myself are about.” 69 Sharing the excitement, Terry Long, founder of Crosby Consulting, added, “It’s really fun to see how museums can unite communities. Artist connections and fundraising are so important.”
After concluding the evening’s onstage activities and declaring dinner to be over, host and television personality Denise Richardson kicked off the after-party by gesturing guests toward an extension of the ballroom. Potbellied people in high heels entered the large dance floor, where golden chiffon hung from the ceiling and flaming red floor lights illuminated it. DJ Düe Champ played a mix of 40 hits and classic hits, and espresso martinis served at the wraparound bar kept the atmosphere lively throughout the evening.
