What a night to remember! On Saturday, October 7th, 2023, The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History hosted its annual fundraising gala, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. This year’s event was a vibrant celebration of African and African-American cultures, bringing together art, heritage, and community in a spectacular display. The theme, “Africa in the Round: Masks of the Diaspora Masquerade Ball,” transported all attendees to a realm of magic, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those present.
The gala was a visual and sensory feast, with attendees honoring the rich history of the African diaspora through stunning masks, headpieces, and culturally-inspired attire. Adding an extra layer of enchantment were the special performances by Monica Blaire and the Urban Art Orchestra. Moreover, guests indulged in a strolling dinner, immersing themselves in an array of delectable dishes as they reveled in the artistic festivities.
It was a beautiful tapestry of creativity and unity, showcasing the diverse and colorful heritage that unites us all. The night served as a reminder of the beauty and resilience of African and African-American communities, and the importance of celebrating our legacy.
A special highlight of the evening was allowing attendees the honor of previewing Ruth Carter’s Afrofuturism: Costume Design exhibit. It featured over 60 original designs from iconic films like Black Panther, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Malcolm X, Do The Right Thing, and more. It was a visual feast that left us in awe.
As we marveled at Ruth E. Carter’s designs, we were reminded of the impact and influence her artistry has had on the world of cinema and beyond. She is a two-time Academy Award-winning costume designer. Her artistry is an epitome of creativity and cultural significance, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cinema and beyond. The exhibit, set to open to the public on October 10th, promises to be a captivating journey through the lens of Afrofuturism, highlighting the fusion of history, culture, and imagination.
A few photos from the Ruth E. Carter Afrofuturism Costume Design Exhibit
The exhibit opens to the public on October 10th, and we highly recommend experiencing this journey through the lens of Afrofuturism. Thank you, Ruth Carter, for gracing us with your talent and vision. Thank you for inspiring generations to come!
Following the gala, the night continued to pulse with energy at the Afroluxxe Afterglow Party. Afroluxxe truly took the celebration to the next level, making it a night to remember. With DJ Blakito at the helm, we enjoyed the rhythm of Afrobeats all night long. It was a celebration that seamlessly blended modern beats with the richness of African culture, a true testament to the spirit of Afrofuturism.
It is through such collective passion and support that these events come to life and leave a lasting impact on our community. As we bid farewell to this year’s gala, we want to recognize everyone who was involved in making this event possible. We eagerly anticipate the inspiration and creativity that will ignite the next. Until the next gala – stay inspired, and let the legacy of our culture continue to shine bright!
Event Sponsors:
- Ford
- Brinker
- MGM Grand Detroit
- AAA
- DTE Foundation
- The Aretha
- Comcast Business
- Hollywood Casino
- And many more…view here.
Huge thanks to everyone who made this magical evening possible. Until next year’s gala – stay inspired!
- Models: @banana_31 @caytutt @iamrockieb @accesslauren
- Headpieces/Masks/Styling: @bflyy7
- Attire/Styling: @zapendashop @stitchby.ty
- Videography: @darrienthepope
- Photography: @extradecent
- Stylist: @lei_clectic_stylz
- Makeup: @theglamdoctor
- Production: @trytala @studiomdetroit @carlottath
A special thanks to my stylist, Nneka. Each accessory she creates is a work of art. From intricately designed headpieces to futuristic jewelry, every item tells a story of resilience and evolution. Nneka seamlessly weaves together vibrant colors, bold shapes, and unique textures, embodying the essence of Afrofuturism. These accessories are more than adornments; they are symbols of empowerment, embracing the strength and beauty of African identity. Honored to have been styled by you.
Take a look of some of the magical moments of the evening. Compliments of @benzo_be
This was a phenomenal read! The recap made me feel as if I was there. Had I not been there, this would have definitely been story time. Great blog Lauren!
This is a phenomenal recap of the night. This is event was definitely an event to remember.