In an elegant showcase of African artistic prowess and philanthropic spirit, Amref Health Africa hosted its annual African ArtBall at the prestigious INDUSTRIA in Brooklyn, NY.
Esteemed luminaries including Carmelo Anthony, Spike Lee, and Tonya Lewis Lee reportedly assumed the roles of co-chairs, further lending their prestige to this illustrious occasion which took place on Saturday, May 4, 2024.
Actor and director Sahr Ngaujah hosted the event, while Franklin Sirmans presented the Rees Visionary Award to world-renowned artist Kehinde Wiley. In a moment of profound generosity, Wiley, reportedly upon receiving the award, pledged a staggering $700,000 donation to Amref, cementing the event’s fusion of artistic excellence and altruism.
Among other luminaries that graced the fundraising event included notable personalities such as Lindsey Peoples, Earl Nurse, Storm Ascher, Indira Cesarine, Nadia Nascimento, Nadja Sayej, Carol Jenkins, Malik Roberts, Wanjiru Mwangi, Tariku Shiferaw, and Quiana Parks, adding to the evening’s aura of sophistication and cultural significance.
Amref Health Africa is recognized for its commitment to empowering African communities with culturally sensitive healthcare solutions. With a team mainly comprising African professionals, they tirelessly work to enhance healthcare accessibility, promote preventive care, and also foster communal ownership over health matters. In the past year alone, they impacted over 31 million women and children in Africa, further demonstrating their dedication to building a healthier and more resilient continent.
The art auction, held on Sothebys.com until May 6 at 12 pm EST, featured 42 pieces of Contemporary African, Pan-African, and Black Art. Curated by Storm Ascher, Cierra Britton, Alexandra Scotland, Natalie Kates, and Nadia Nascimento, it also aimed to captivate art enthusiasts while supporting Amref’s healthcare initiatives in Africa. Artists included Hank Willis Thomas, Khalif Tahir Thompson, Adama Delphine Fawundu, and others.
In addition, an exclusive dinner and salon reportedly offered guests an intimate fireside chat between Kehinde Wiley and Marc Lacey, Managing Director of the New York Times, as well as other distinguished speakers, enriching the evening with stimulating discourse and intellectual engagement.
Throughout the evening, guests also enjoyed refreshments from YESBABE, Amazing Graze NY, Ten To One, iBest Wines, Mary Taylor Wines, Mishka, Martell, Cantera Negra, and Aplos. Partners like Pfizer, Open Society Foundation, and others supported the event. The striking step and repeat backdrop by Matay & Co featured authentic West African fabrics, adding cultural flair. In addition, guests enjoyed music by FON Sound System and a live performance by Les Ballet Afrik, making it an unforgettable celebration of African artistry and philanthropy.
