Brooklyn Museum Hosts 2025 Artists Ball Honoring Darren Walker
On April 29, the Brooklyn Museum hosted its annual Brooklyn Artists Ball, bringing together prominent names from the art, fashion, and philanthropic communities to celebrate creative excellence and honor Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation, for his ongoing contributions to the arts.
The evening began with a performance by Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet during the cocktail hour, setting the tone for a night dedicated to artistic expression and support for the museum’s mission. Dinner followed in the Beaux Arts Court, with décor by artist Jeffrey Gibson, inspired by his exhibitions When Fire Is Applied to a Stone It Cracks and the space in which to place me.
The guest list included a blend of cultural and entertainment figures. Guests in Dior and Dior Men included Kerry Washington, Alexandra Daddario, Keri Russell, Zazie Beetz, Auli’i Cravalho, Emma Roberts, Lucy Damon, Cory Michael Smith, Caleb McLaughlin, and artist Mickalene Thomas. Artist and honoree Jeffrey Gibson was joined by fellow creatives and industry figures such as Carrie Mae Weems, Kimberly Drew, Anna Weyant, Hayal Pozanti, and Shohei Shigematsu.
Icelandic singer-songwriter Laufey delivered a special musical performance during the dinner. The night concluded with the Artist Ball After Party, featuring a DJ set by producer and Brooklyn Museum trustee Swizz Beatz.
The event continues to serve as a major fundraising evening for the museum and a celebration of its support for living artists.
A view of the atmosphere
