On Monday night, November 10, our community came together for our annual Gala & Cultural Leadership Awards, and it was truly a memorable evening!
We were honoured to recognize three extraordinary individuals whose work is shaping the future of art and culture: Christian Levett, art collector and philanthropist, for his commitment to championing women artists through his collection and museum initiatives; Howardena Pindell, artist and educator, whose groundbreaking practice and advocacy have expanded visibility for women and artists of colour; and Ann Temkin, Chief Curator of Painting and Sculpture at The Museum of Modern Art, for her leadership in shaping exhibitions and collections that bring women’s contributions to the forefront.
The evening was filled with engaging conversations, inspiring art, and impactful community building – all made possible by the incredible generosity of our Gala Leadership: Elizabeth Belfer, Judy Glickman Lauder, Christian Levett, and Alice Walton, as well as Agnes Gund, and Barbara & Richard S. Lane. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to our Benefactor Sponsors: The A. Alfred Taubman Foundation, Sarah Arison, Renee & Robert Belfer, Emily Bingham & Stephen Reily, Molly Gochman, Ellen Grimes, Anne McCollum, and Kimerly Rorschach & John Hart.
We were especially proud to uplift the AFA’s Women in Art Initiative, which honours the vital contributions of women artists, curators, and cultural leaders. With expert auction support from our amazing partners at Christie’s, and thanks to the incredible generosity in the room, we successfully auctioned two extraordinary works from Berry Campbell Gallery and completed our first-ever Paddle Raise, creating an exciting moment for collective impact.
A special thank you goes to Chargeurs Museum Studio for their support and partnership as our gala sponsor. Together, we celebrate the power of traveling art to communities around the world.
For those unable to attend on Monday evening, there is still an opportunity to support the AFA’s mission. Your contribution directly strengthens the AFA’s Women in Art Initiative and ensures museums nationwide can serve as a platform for education, inspiration, and artistic excellence for communities to learn from and enjoy.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, supported us, and celebrated with us. We’re grateful for your continued commitment to the arts and look forward to what we’ll accomplish together in the coming year!
