The Bronx Museum of the Arts hosted its annual Gala & Art Auction at Tribeca Rooftop in support of its mission to champion diverse contemporary artists and to engage audiences in The Bronx and beyond through free world-class cultural programming. The black-tie evening featured a cocktail hour sponsored by Edmond’s Honor, seated dinner, live auction of exceptional artworks and experiences, and a lively after-party.
Notable guests included Joey Bada$$, Ferg, Colm Dillane (KidSuper), Awol Erizku, Ella Emhoff, Antwaun Sargent, Anne Pasternak, Derrick Adams, Mickalene Thomas, Vanessa L. Gibson, and more.
The evening honored acclaimed contemporary artist Awol Erizku (who has a forthcoming solo exhibition at The Bronx Museum) with the Artistic Visionary Award, presented by the musician and artist known as FERG; arts patron Lois Plehn with the Cultural Ambassador Award, presented by Michael McGinnis; and KidSuper (Colm Dillane), designer, artist, and founder of KidSuper Studios, with the Innovator Award, presented by recording artist, actor, and advocate Joey Bada$$. In a full-circle moment, while presenting artist Awol Erizku with the Artistic Visionary Award, rapper FERG shared that the two attended high school together. “Bronx, New York City, you made me what I am,” Awol Erizku reflected.
The Bronx Museum’s Director and Chief Curator Shamim M. Momin comments: “We are deeply grateful to our Honorees—Awol Erizku, Lois Plehn, and KidSuper—as well as our Co-Chairs Danielle Falls & Annie B. Taylor, Host & Benefit Committee members, auction artists, Board of Trustees, sponsors, and staff for making The Bronx Museum’s 2026 Gala & Art Auction such a resounding success. This extraordinary support affirms a shared belief in the importance of this museum’s mission: that art belongs to the people; that culture is not a luxury, but a necessity; and that voices too often pushed to the margins deserve to be centered, amplified, and protected. As we celebrate an unforgettable evening, we are energized by what lies ahead, including the reopening of our transformed south wing in the coming year. Together, we are building a future where accessible contemporary art continues to inspire and connect.”
Following pre-Gala online pre-bidding powered by Romulus, The Bronx Museum’s coveted 2026 live auction was conducted by Sarah Krueger, Auctioneer and Head of Photography at Phillips. Highlights included artworks by Ann Craven, KidSuper, Reverend Joyce McDonald, and Gamaliel Rodriguez, as well as experiences such as a private studio visit with Mickalene Thomas. Television personality Denise Richardson charmingly emceed the dinner program, followed by an After Party featuring an energizing set by DJ Düe Champ and friends, along with signature espresso martinis sponsored by KURE. Guests departed with gift bags featuring luxury fragrances courtesy of Mind Games.
Image credit: Quadir Moore/BFA
