Nov 11

Nov 11 Style & Social Justice at MoCADA's Masquerade Gala at BAM

A night of style, social justice, and celebrating contemporary art from the African Diaspora took place at MoCADA's Masquerade Gala, held at Brooklyn Academy of Music's (BAM) Lepercq Ballroom on October 25th. This is the museum's eighteenth year in operation and it's third annual gala, which is aimed at raising monies for the museum's 2019 expansion in Brooklyn. Celebrity guests and art world players arrived in fabulous form and rocked exquisite masks for the gala's masquerade theme.

Brooklyn native and Neo-Soul legend Maxwell served as the honorary Gala Chair, and the iconic media personalities Emil Wilbekin and Tai Beauchamp emceed the night's festivities. Blackness, a passion for art, and a love for community engagement was emphasized throughout the entire night and echoed around beautifully. Contemporary artist Rashid Johnson was honored with the Artist Advocacy Award, and art superstar Shantell Martin (who has had a solo show at MoCADA) was bestowed with the Emerging Artistic Voice Award. Other honorees included Opal Tometi for the Social Justice Advocacy Award and The Council of Urban Professionals (CUP) for the Corporate Advocacy Award.

In a special partnership with Paddle 8, an excellently curated group of works, 35 in all, were selected by Joakim Von Ditmar and available online for purchase. Alt funk/soul/r&b duo Lionbabe provided an electrifying DJ set and a thrilling performance, including the hit 'Treat Me Like Fire'.