The Bronx Museum of the Arts held its annual spring gala and art auction at Tribeca Rooftop, drawing artists, celebrities, and community leaders. The event honored artist Awol Erizku, cultural patron Lois Plehn, and designer Colm Dillane, while raising funds for the museum’s initiatives. Attendees enjoyed cocktails, dinner, an auction, and an after-party under balmy April weather.
On Wednesday evening, under balmy 85-degree weather, guests gathered at Tribeca Rooftop for the Bronx Museum’s spring gala and art auction. Elevators carried attendees to a golden hour cocktail reception featuring Beluga caviar and Veuve Clicquot. A$AP Ferg, presenting the Artistic Visionary Award to Awol Erizku, said, “Tonight is a beautiful night—and this setting helps me to not be nervous before giving my speech.” Young Paris added, “I appreciate the museum shining a spotlight on the culture and highlighting the positive things happening in-and-around the Bronx.” Among the prominent guests were Mickalene Thomas, Ella Emhoff, Joey Bada$$, Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, and Michael McGinnis, who presented the Cultural Ambassador Award to Lois Plehn. Joey Bada$$ gave the Innovator Award to KidSuper designer Colm Dillane. Museum trustee and gala co-chair Annie B. Taylor remarked, “I cherish the importance of what we’ve done and what we’re doing for the Bronx. We’re extremely blessed to do such important work.” Jeanice Parker, an art curator, called the event a necessity, praising the décor and crowd. After cocktails, diners enjoyed a three-course meal of Mesclun greens, steak, Chilean sea bass, and dessert tarts at black-and-gold tables. Phillips’ Sarah Krueger led the auction, where a studio visit with Mickalene Thomas fetched $10,000 and Ann Craven’s artwork sold for over $20,000 to Taylor. Dorian Braxton of Mind Games, the gifting sponsor, emphasized the company’s support for art and community service. The night ended with emcee Denise Richardson ushering in an after-party, DJ Düe Champ spinning hits, and board chair Joseph Mizzi’s closing remarks. Taylor whispered excitedly about possibly raising over $1 million.
