Join the Brooklyn Museum’s 2025 Artists Ball for an unforgettable night of art, activism, and couture as it celebrates philanthropic powerhouse Darren Walker.
The spring art party season is in full swing, and the Brooklyn Museum’s annual Brooklyn Artists Ball was no exception. The event, which honors philanthropic powerhouse and social justice advocate Darren Walker, brought together cultural luminaries, collectors, and artists for a night of art, activism, and couture.
A Celebration of Artistic Impact
Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation, has had a transformative impact on the arts. His commitment to equity, access, and artists was celebrated alongside his philanthropic efforts. The evening raised over $4 million to support exhibitions and museum programming, making it an impressive success.
Darren Walker is an American philanthropist and activist.
He serves as the President of the Ford Foundation, a position he has held since 2013.
Prior to joining the Ford Foundation, 'Walker worked at the Rockefeller Foundation and the World Bank.'
He has also served on various boards, including the National Gallery of Art and the New America Foundation.
Walker is known for his work in advancing economic mobility and social justice.
Artists, Collectors, and Couture Unite
The event’s design house partner, Dior, added a touch of glamour to the night. Kerry Washington, Zazie Beetz, Auli‘i Cravalho, Alexandra Daddario, and Keri Russell were among the A-list guests spotted wearing Dior. However, it was the artists who brought the true energy to the party.
Bisa Butler, Hank Willis Thomas, Mickalene Thomas, Carrie Mae Weems, Antwaun Sargent, Anne Collier, Titus Kaphar, and Hayal Pozanti were just a few of the creatives in attendance. The artists’ presence was matched by their collectors and philanthropists, including Jeffrey Citrin, Rona Citrin, Saundra Williams-Cornwell, W. Don Cornwell, Fabiola Beracasa Beckman, Thelma Golden, Shohei Shigematsu, Isolde Brielmaier, and Sylvana Ward Durrett.
Artists have been an integral part of human culture for centuries, contributing to the development of various art forms.
From ancient civilizations like Egypt and Greece to modern-day artists, their work has reflected societal values, politics, and emotions.
According to a survey by the National Endowment for the Arts, 76% of Americans engage with visual arts annually.
The most famous artists in history include Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso, each leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
A Night to Remember
The evening’s entertainment included a high-energy dance performance by Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet, a kaleidoscopic light installation inspired by Jeffrey Gibson’s exhibitions ‘When Fire Is Applied to a Stone It Cracks‘ and ‘the space in which to place me,’ and performances by Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey.
Following dessert, the party moved downstairs for an afterparty hosted by Swizz Beatz. His DJ set signaled the start of the next phase of celebrations, which extended well past midnight. The official program closed with a beautiful performance by Laufey, wearing Maria Grazia Chiuri for Dior Spring/Summer 2025 Haute Couture.
Swizz Beatz, born Kasseem Dean, is a renowned American music producer, rapper, and entrepreneur.
With over two decades of experience in the industry, he has worked with top artists such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Kanye West.
Swizz Beatz has produced numerous hit singles and albums, earning him multiple Grammy Awards.
He is also the co-founder of MegaWatts Productions and Equinox Films.
Known for his innovative production style and entrepreneurial spirit, Swizz Beatz continues to make a significant impact on the music industry.
A Night of Unity and Celebration
The Brooklyn Museum’s 2025 Artists Ball was a night to remember – a celebration of artistic impact, unity among creatives, collectors, and philanthropists, and the power of art to bring people together.
