The crown jewel of this year’s Nexus: SF/Bay Area Black Art Week was the Museum of the African Diaspora’s Afropolitan Ball—a glittering, high-octane gala that raised more than $1 million for the institution’s programming. The black-tie fête once again drew a mix of power players from art, fashion, entertainment and philanthropy, all converging at the San Francisco Ferry Building to see and be seen while celebrating MoAD’s 20th anniversary.
Spotted in the cosmopolitan crowd were artists Mildred Howard, Zully Adler, Cheryl Derricotte, Mikael Owunna, Marta Thoma Hall, Ayana V. Jackson, Gustavo Nazareno, Ramekon O’Arwisters and Lava Thomas; curators Francesco Dama, Ashara Ekundayo and Yasmin Lambie-Simpson; and gallerist Jeremy Patricia Stone. Also in attendance were San Francisco Director of Cultural Affairs Ralph Remington, political powerbroker Willie L. Brown Jr., arts patron Irwin Federman, multihyphenate creator Joy Ofodu, philanthropist Mary Graham, director and screenwriter Maya Forbes and China Forbes, lead singer of Pink Martini. The latter are sisters, MoAD board members and daughters of board vice chair Peggy Woodford Forbes, founder and former CEO of Woodford Capital Management. (Supporting MoAD, it seems, runs in the family.)
Kicking off the evening’s festivities, event chair Eric McDonnell took the stage to spotlight MoAD’s achievements over two decades before Woodford Forbes honored the museum’s founding board, including Belva Davis, inaugural board president and the first African American woman television reporter on the West Coast. MoAD executive director and CEO Monetta White then unveiled the museum’s new mandate. “We step boldly into the future with a new mission, to place contemporary art and artists of the African Diaspora at the center of the global cultural conversation,” she said. “This is not just a statement, it is a charge. A charge to lift up the voices of artists from the African Diaspora and to make sure their contributions are not at the margins, but at the very center of culture.”
Once the speeches concluded, auction specialist Naomi Lewis rallied the glitterati to raise their paddles for experiences including a Donum Estate wine tasting and a private dinner with White and curator Key Jo Lee. A spellbinding performance by Alonzo King LINES Ballet followed—offering a preview of its upcoming collaboration with Grammy-winning artist Esperanza Spalding—before DJ Novena Carmel took over the balcony, spinning a genre-spanning set that kept guests dancing late into the night.
Eric McDonnell, Monetta White, Ralph Remington and Key Jo Lee
Table of Contents
- 1. Eric McDonnell, Monetta White, Ralph Remington and Key Jo Lee
- 2. Naomi Lewis
- 3. Maya Forbes and China Forbes
- 4. Mikael Owunna
- 5. Ayana Jackson, Gustavo Nazareno, Lava Thomas and Yasmin Lambie-Simpson
- 6. Robin Washington and Carl Washington
- 7. Toye Moses and Alma Robinson Moses
- 8. Willie Brown and Monetta White
- 9. Luke Liss, Peggy Woodford Forbes and Shana Simmons
- 10. Brandin Vaughn and Gustavo Nazareno
- 11. Joy Ofodu
- 12. Chuck Collins, Paula Collins and Ralph Remington
- 13. Concepcion Federman and Irwin Federman
- 14. Key Jo Lee, Lava Thomas, Ashara Ekundayo and Richard Beavers
- 15. Naomi Lewis and Ramekon O’Arwisters
- 16. Charisse Howse and David Howse
- 17. How does the Afropolitan Ball embody the concept of Afropolitanism as a bridge between the African continent and its global diaspora?
- 18. Exploring Heritage and Culture: Inside the Museum of the African Diaspora’s Afropolitan Ball
- 19. The Afropolitan Ball: A Celebration of Pan-African Identity
- 20. A Night of Elegance and Empowerment
- 21. MoAD’s Role in Preserving and Promoting Diaspora Culture
- 22. The Significance of Afropolitanism
- 23. Fashion as a Statement: Decoding the Dress Code
- 24. Beyond the Ball: moad’s Ongoing Impact
- 25. Practical Tips for Attending (or Experiencing MoAD)
Naomi Lewis
Maya Forbes and China Forbes
Mikael Owunna
Ayana Jackson, Gustavo Nazareno, Lava Thomas and Yasmin Lambie-Simpson
Robin Washington and Carl Washington
Toye Moses and Alma Robinson Moses
Willie Brown and Monetta White
Luke Liss, Peggy Woodford Forbes and Shana Simmons
Brandin Vaughn and Gustavo Nazareno
Joy Ofodu
Chuck Collins, Paula Collins and Ralph Remington
Concepcion Federman and Irwin Federman
Key Jo Lee, Lava Thomas, Ashara Ekundayo and Richard Beavers
Naomi Lewis and Ramekon O’Arwisters
Charisse Howse and David Howse
How does the Afropolitan Ball embody the concept of Afropolitanism as a bridge between the African continent and its global diaspora?
Exploring Heritage and Culture: Inside the Museum of the African Diaspora’s Afropolitan Ball
The Afropolitan Ball: A Celebration of Pan-African Identity
The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) in san francisco hosts the annual Afropolitan Ball, a cornerstone event celebrating Black excellence, heritage, and contemporary culture. More than just a gala,it’s a vibrant expression of Afropolitanism – a concept encompassing a cosmopolitan African identity,bridging the continent with its global diaspora. This article delves into the experience, meaning, and cultural impact of this unique event.
A Night of Elegance and Empowerment
The Afropolitan Ball consistently draws a diverse crowd – artists, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and individuals passionate about African and diasporic culture. Attendees are encouraged to embrace bold fashion choices, often incorporating customary African textiles and designs alongside modern styles. Think vibrant Ankara prints, elegant kente cloth accents, and elegant interpretations of African-inspired aesthetics.
Here’s what typically unfolds during an Afropolitan Ball evening:
* Cocktail Reception: A lively atmosphere with music, networking, and opportunities to admire the fashion.
* Gourmet Dining: A curated menu often featuring flavors inspired by African cuisine.
* Live Performances: Showcasing african and diasporic musicians, dancers, and artists. Past performers have included internationally recognized acts.
* Silent Auction: Featuring art, experiences, and items supporting MoAD’s mission.
* Dancing: A DJ or live band keeps the energy high, blending Afrobeat, hip-hop, R&B, and other genres.
MoAD’s Role in Preserving and Promoting Diaspora Culture
The Museum of the African Diaspora isn’t merely a venue; it’s integral to the Ball’s purpose. MoAD’s core mission is to explore the global journey of people of African descent, highlighting their contributions to art, culture, and society. The Afropolitan Ball directly supports this mission, serving as a major fundraising event. funds raised contribute to:
* Exhibitions: Supporting the creation and presentation of thought-provoking exhibits.
* Educational Programs: Offering workshops, lectures, and resources for all ages.
* Community Outreach: Expanding access to cultural experiences for underserved communities.
* Preservation of Artifacts: Maintaining and expanding the museum’s collection of historical and artistic treasures.
The Significance of Afropolitanism
The term “Afropolitan” has sparked debate, with some critiquing it as elitist.However, at its heart, Afropolitanism represents a growing sense of global citizenship among people of African descent. It acknowledges the complexities of identity – being both rooted in African heritage and connected to the wider world. The Afropolitan Ball embodies this spirit by:
* Celebrating Diversity: Showcasing the richness and variety within the African diaspora.
* Fostering Connections: Bringing together individuals from different backgrounds and experiences.
* Promoting Innovation: Highlighting the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of African and diasporic communities.
* Challenging Stereotypes: Presenting a nuanced and multifaceted portrayal of Black culture.
Fashion as a Statement: Decoding the Dress Code
The Afropolitan Ball’s dress code isn’t just about looking good; it’s an chance for cultural expression. While formal attire is expected, attendees are encouraged to incorporate elements that honor their heritage.
Here are some popular choices:
- Ankara & Kitenge: These vibrant African wax prints are a staple, often fashioned into dresses, suits, or accessories.
- Kente Cloth: Originating from Ghana, kente cloth is known for its intricate patterns and symbolic colors.
- Adire: A Yoruba (nigeria) indigo-dyed cloth with unique patterns.
- Modern Interpretations: Designers are increasingly incorporating african-inspired motifs into contemporary styles.
- Accessories: Bold jewelry, headwraps, and traditional footwear can add a touch of cultural flair.
Beyond the Ball: moad’s Ongoing Impact
The Afropolitan Ball is a highlight, but MoAD’s work extends far beyond this single event. The museum consistently hosts exhibitions, workshops, and programs that explore a wide range of topics related to the African diaspora. Recent exhibits have covered themes such as:
* Black Power Movements: Examining the history and legacy of activism.
* African Art & Design: Showcasing contemporary and traditional artistic expressions.
* The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Confronting the historical trauma and its ongoing impact.
* Diasporic Literature & Music: Celebrating the creative contributions of Black artists.
Practical Tips for Attending (or Experiencing MoAD)
* Purchase Tickets Early: The Afropolitan Ball is a popular event, and tickets often sell out quickly.
* Plan Your Outfit: Embrace the opportunity to express your cultural pride through fashion.
* Explore MoAD’s Website: Learn about upcoming exhibitions and programs. (https://www.moadsf.org/)
* Engage with the Community: Connect with other attendees and learn about their experiences.
* Support MoAD’s Mission: Consider making a donation or becoming a member.
Keywords: Afropolitan Ball, Museum of the African Diaspora, MoAD, African Diaspora, African Culture, Black Excellence, San Francisco Events, Heritage, Culture, Afropolitanism, Ankara, Kente