Video | SF’s Recharge Group Expands with Miami Launch
Event: Recharge Miami Launch
Date: December 4, 2024
Photography: courtesy of The Recharge Group
Retired athletes, investors, artists, and philanthropists came together to explore the power of art as an asset class at Villa Miami. Recharge Miami, a new partnership between The Source and the original Recharge which began in the San Francisco Bay Area, will activate events for black and brown executives, venture partners, and academia among others to come together to network, have provocative conversations and do business. “This is about building community and having a sacred space where people feel they can be themselves and make meaningful connections” said Marc Spencer, founder of Recharge.
The Recharge Group, previously known as the Black Battery, a company dedicated to curating exceptional experiences for African American professionals is currently transitioning through a rebranding and evolution. Stepping away from its previous name, The Recharge Group signifies a renewed commitment to amplifying connection, creativity, and cultural immersion in its offerings.
More about Recharge Miami>>
Contemporary Painting in Papua New Guinea: Mathias Kauage and His Family
Mathias Kauage (ca. 1944–2003) is acclaimed for his boldly colorful paintings of a world radically changing around him in the late 20th century. This exhibition features four paintings from our collection by Mathias and his family, on view for the first time. During his lifetime, Mathias experienced dramatic societal shifts — not only during the decades under colonial Australian administration but also after Papua New Guinea achieved independence in 1975.
Photos | McMullen/Ayensu Host Celebration of African Heritage and Community
Event: McMullen SF Boutique x Christie Brown 2024
Date: September 12, 2024
Location: McMullen, Oakland
Photos (39): Katie Ravas for Drew Altizer Photography
On September 18, 2024, Sherri McMullen, recognized by Vogue Business as one of the Top 100 Innovators and a Champion of Change, co-hosted an intimate dinner alongside Aisha Ayensu, founder and creative director of the renowned Ghanaian fashion house Christie Brown. The event marked the launch of their first exclusive size-inclusive collaboration together at McMullen’s Oakland flagship, capturing the essence of African heritage, contemporary design and community.
Guests were treated to a special evening welcoming Aisha Ayensu to the Bay Area. The event showcased an immersive live model presentation of the Christie Brown x McMullen Fall capsule collection, offering a blend of high fashion and rich cultural storytelling. Attendees enjoyed a curated 3-course meal by Chef Lala of Jusla Eats, paired with delicious wines from Brown Estates, as they celebrated the seamless fusion of two distinct fashion perspectives coming together. A highlight of the evening was the debut of Christie Brown’s “At The Table” dinner series, originally from Accra, Ghana, now brought to Oakland, California. This unique experience fostered deeper connections among guests, creating a magical sense of community throughout the night.
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Photos | CCA “Making Futures” Opening Celebrations for Campus Expansion
Event: California College of the Arts “Making Futures” Campus Expansion
Date: October 19, 2024
Location: California College of the Arts, San Francisco
Photos (55): Natalie Schrik for Drew Altizer Photography
On Saturday, October 19, hundreds of guests joined California College of the Arts for their Making Futures Opening Celebrations, to commemorate the long-awaited opening of their campus expansion, where they honored their historic legacy, and put forward their visions for the college.
The day began with their annual Homecoming Alumni Gathering, where they inducted their Half Century Club members (class of 1974) and presented the inaugural Alumni Service Award to Michele Carlson (MFA Printmaking 2006), Weston Teruya (MFA Painting/Drawing 2007, MFA Visual & Critical Studies 2007), and Nathan Watson (Glass) of RelatedTactics. While an exhibition of the college’s history graced the walls of the Nave Presentation Space, they were also joined by a special member of early CCA history: Jack Bousian, our oldest living alumni at 104 years old.
At 4 pm, Provost Tammy Rae Carland rang the college’s bell (a tradition started by their school’s founder Frederick H. Meyer), and the Opening Ceremony began in their newly built Gensler Family Courtyard. Remarks from President David C. Howse, faculty TT Takemoto, Studio Operations Manager Jeremiah Jenkins, student Alyssa Bardge (Writing and Literature) and Distinguished Alum Lava Thomas (BFA Ceramics 1999) led them into reflection of what community means, the power that art and design hold, and the possibilities that await them. San Francisco mayor London Breed also joined them, acknowledging the college’s contributions to the city, and officially proclaimed October 19 as California College of the Arts Day. At the end of the ceremony, attendees were invited to participate in a ribbon-tying moment, a collective action to symbolize the unification of their campus.
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Photos | 181 Fremont’s Gallery 181 Celebrates “Portraits” from Artist Tyler Willis
Event: Artwork of Tyler Willis Celebrated at Gallery 181
Date: October 22, 2024
Location: Gallery 181, San Francisco
Photos (33): Natalie Schrik for Drew Altizer Photography
The 181 Fremont Residences’ art gallery in the sky, Gallery 181, in San Francisco hosted a fantastic celebration of the artwork of Bay Area native Tyler Willis on October 22. Over a hundred supporters and collectors including Matt Lituchy, Jay and Kathryn Paul, Maia Harris and Carmen Legarda toasted Willis’ first gallery showing and enjoyed sushi and sparkling wines with views of the water and the city from the 69th floor half-penthouse gallery. In his remarks, the artist connected his collegiate studies in architecture and engineering to his methodology in creating his artwork. “Portraits,” the title of this show will be on view for sales and viewing through February, 2025 by contacting Carmen Legarda at Carmen@181Fremont.com.
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Photos | Root Division Raises Over $265k at Annual Auction
Event: Root Division Annual Art Auction
Date: October 24, 2024
Location: Root Division, San Francisco
Photos (29): Katie Rivas for Drew Altizer Photography
The atmosphere was simply magical at Root Division’s 23rd Annual Art Auction, where creativity and community met in a spectacular celebration of art on October 24, 2024, at San Francisco’s Root Division. Over 180 talented artists showcased vibrant works, spanning across mediums from photography to painting to sculpture. The energy in the room was electric as attendees eagerly bid on stunning pieces, contributing to a remarkable total that exceeded $175,000 in art sales alone. The excitement reached a fever pitch as the auction unfolded, with enthusiastic bidders fueling a sense of camaraderie and spirited competition to bid in support of Root Division. Across ticket sales, host packages, and items in both the silent auction and live auction, the organization raised over $265,000.
As the night unfolded, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement as outgoing Executive Director Michelle Mansour and incoming Executive Director Demetri Broxton took the stage to lead the live auction. Michelle’s years of dedication and visionary leadership set a vibrant tone, and her heartfelt farewell resonated with the crowd, who were eager to celebrate her contributions. With Demetri stepping in, the energy surged as he brought his own dynamic style to the event. Together, they moved the audience with infectious enthusiasm, encouraging unprecedented participation from the crowd. The synergy between them not only honored the past but also heralded a bright future–leaving everyone inspired and eager for the next chapter in Root Division’s journey.
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Photos | Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco’s Downtown Launch Party
Event: Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco’s Downtown Launch Party
Date: October 24, 2024
Location: ICA SF at The Cube, San Francisco
Photos (42): Steve Jennings and Devlin Shand for Drew Altizer Photography
On Thursday October 24th, the Institute of Contemporary Art San Francisco (ICA SF) opened its doors to 650+ guests to launch its new location Downtown in The Cube, a historic building at 345 Montgomery Street. ICA SF at The Cube, a non-collecting contemporary art museum with free admission, opened with three inaugural exhibitions: The Poetics of Dimensions curated by Larry Ossei-Mensah; Maryam Yousif: Riverbend; and Spotlight: Kathleen Ryan. The partygoers enjoyed catering by The Vault and music by DJ Lady Ryan. Guests were the first to experience the new building before it opened to the public on Friday, October 25th, and toasted to this impactful new arts destination amidst revitalization efforts Downtown.
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“We’ve Got To Give Power To The People”
Electricity for a Black Industrial Revolution
We are at a unique crossroads where technological advancement and the urgent need
for economic justice intersect. Never before has a single action, like providing
industrial-level power to historically marginalized communities, held the potential
for such massive restorative impact. So let’s make our voices heard – and secure 100
megawatts each for West Oakland and East Oakland.
Here’s why:
- The Rise of Data-Driven Economies: Our economy is rapidly shifting towards industries heavily reliant on data centers, AI supercomputing, and advanced manufacturing. These require immense amounts of power. By strategically allocating this power, we can directly influence where these industries take root and who benefits from them.
- PG&E’s Pivotal Role: PG&E, as the primary utility provider, holds the key to unlocking this potential. They have the power to direct resources and make infrastructural commitments that can reshape the economic landscape of Oakland.
- A Stroke of the Pen, a Transformative Impact: Committing 100 MW of power each to West and East Oakland is not merely about electricity; it’s about sending a powerful signal to businesses, investors, and residents. This commitment translates to:
—- Attracting High-Tech Industries: Companies seeking to establish data centers or AI research facilities will gravitate towards areas wit guaranteed access to abundant power.
—- Job Creation and Upskilling: New industries bring high-paying jobs and create a demand for skilled workers, leading to opportunities for residents to upskill and thrive.
—- Stimulating Local Entrepreneurship: Access to reliable and affordable power enables local entrepreneurs to launch tech-focused businesses, fostering innovation and economic growth within the community.
- Unprecedented Opportunity: This convergence of technological advancement and the demand for social justice presents an unprecedented opportunity. We can leverage the power needs of the future to rectify past injustices and create a more equitable and inclusive society.
By taking this decisive action, PG&E can become a catalyst for change, demonstrating that economic development and social justice can go hand in hand. This is not just about closing the digital divide; it’s about building a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the technological revolution.
OCTOBER 22, 2024 EVENT:
More Power to the People: Energy and Education for Jobs & Wealth Creation:
Hey there! Are you ready to learn about how access to energy can lead to jobs and wealth creation? Join us in person for this exciting event where experts will
share insights on these topics. Get inspired and empowered to make a difference in
your community. Your participation matters! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to
connect with like-minded individuals and be part of the change. See you there!
REGISTER>>
Photos | An Evening with Lateefah Simon for Congress
Event: Lateefah Simon for Congress Fundraiser
Date: October 11, 2024
Location: Town Fare, Oakland
Photography (71): Photographers@Large / Staff (Lateefah Simon for Congress)
Community leaders and supporters gathered in support of Lateefah Simon for Congress at a fundraiser hosted at Town Fare in Oakland last Friday. Lateefah appears to be building momentum and running a strong campaign to succeed Rep. Barbara Lee in Congress. Along with maintaining a presence on the ground in California’s 12th Congressional District (CA-12: Alameda County and includes the cities of Oakland, Berkeley, Emeryville, Alameda, Albany, and most of San Leandro), Democratic leadership has asked Lateefah to step up as a leader in the Bay Area to support other candidates running to flip Republican seats to ensure a Democratic majority in Congress next year. She is also intent on running for Freshman Class President in the House of Representatives.
According to her campaign personnel – “New polling shows Lateefah has a slim lead – 28% to 15% – but over 50% of voters in California’s 12th district are undecided. But there is good news – when undecided voters hear about Lateefah’s experience and what she will fight for in Congress, more than half lean toward supporting her.”
“Lateefah is a fierce advocate and proven leader, always working tirelessly to uplift those around her … And I see no one better suited to carry forward my work of uplifting the voices of the underrepresented, fighting for justice, and championing the East Bay’s needs.” – Congresswoman Barbara Lee
Event Hosts
Cathy Adams, Ces Butner, Michael D, Michele McQueen and George Woods
Event Host Committee
Bottom: Lynell Bevels, Michele McQueen (Host), Paul Henderson, Lateefah Simon, Cathy Adams (Host), Barbara Hardy, Alan Dones. Top – Paul Garrison, Erik Moore, Derreck Johnson, Gerry Dove, Kim Bardakian, Bruce Hardy, Dr. George Woods (Host), Millicent Cox-Edwards, Michael D (Host). Missing: Michael Baines, Ces Butner (Host), Randolph Belle, Lisa Blackwell, Tyra Fennell, Nina Greenwood, Paula Harrell, Robert L. Harris, Taylor Jay, LaNiece Jones, Kevin. L. Nichols, Deanna Roberts, Shonda Scott, Daryle Whyte. Photo Credit: Photographers@Large
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PHOTOS | SFMOMA Opens Expansive Exhibition “Get in the Game”
Event: “Get in the Game” Opening Reception
Date: October 15, 2024
Location: SFMOMA, San Francisco
Photos (56): Drew Altizer and Natalie Schrik for Drew Altizer Photography
ART + DESIGN INFLUENCED BY THE ROLE OF SPORTS IN OUR CULTURE
Over 300 guests gathered on October 15 to celebrate Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture, the centerpiece of SFMOMA’s most expansive presentation to date, encompassing seven related exhibitions and more than 200 artworks and design objects inspired by sports, athleticism, competition and play. With an exhibition design that evokes the thrill of entering a stadium, Get in the Game invites discovery of compelling artworks and design breakthroughs by more than 70 artists and designers who are drawn to the drama of sports and the drive of athletes. Guests—many of whom wore attire from their favorite athletic teams– enjoyed sports-inspired food and drink during the energy-filled evening.
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PHOTOS | MoAD’s Afropolitan Ball Celebrates Power of Black Art and Cultural Diversity
Event: MoAD Afropolitan Ball 2024
Date: October 5, 2024
Location: San Francisco Design Center Galleria
Photography (14): Chloe Jackman Photography
The Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) celebrated the 2024 Afropolitan Ball at the San Francisco Design Center Galleria on the evening of October 5, 2024. Over 600 patrons, artists, scholars, and cultural figures came together to celebrate the museum’s trailblazing accomplishments and future, marking the first-ever Nexus: SF/Bay Area Black Art Week that began on October 1. The VIP Reception beginning at 6PM featured unique culinary offerings from Melons Catering & Event Planning, raising critical funds for the museum’s renowned exhibitions, programs and education initiatives. The evening featured music from Kev Choice Ensemble, while DJ LadyRyan provided a lively set for the party portion beginning at 9PM.
“We hope that Nexus: SF/Bay Area Black Art Week inspires our entire region leading into MoAD’s 20th anniversary next year,” said Monetta White, Executive Director and CEO. “MoAD is more than a museum, it’s a beacon, a platform, and a gathering place for dialogue, inspiration and change. Our shared commitment to building a future with the visions of the African Diaspora is seen, heard, and felt around the world.”
During the VIP Reception, initial remarks were provided by Board Chair Eric McDonnell, who spoke about the museum’s unique initiatives across education, cuisine, and writing. Afropolitan Ball 2024 Co-chairs Shannon Nash and Minjon LeNoir Hall (pictured) introduced Key Jo Lee, MoAD’s Chief of Curatorial Affairs and Public Programs, who discussed the museum’s sustained commitment to enriching Black artists and intellectual life. Earlier this week, Lee unveiled the opening of three new exhibitions at the museum: Liberatory Living: Protective Interiors and Radical Black Joy, Unveiling Histories: A Fabricated Archive by Jessica Monette, and What We Carry to Set Ourselves Free by Helina Metaferia.”
Following remarks from artist Lava Thomas on the significance of MoAD’s Emerging Artist Program, renowned voice actor Joy Ofodu (pictured) joined with McDonnell to lead an energized round of fundraising bids for MoAD. This section of the program culminated with remarks by MoAD’s Executive Director and CEO Monetta White who commented on the spirit of community at the Ball and throughout the entire inaugural Nexus week, which will lay the foundation for the museum’s 20th anniversary next year in 2025
San Francisco Mayor London Breed thanked guests for coming together to celebrate MoAD’s past, present, and future. “I want to thank each and every one of you for continuing–for almost 20 years–to support MoAD and the extraordinary work they do to make sure that the African diaspora is uplifted, protected and supported in San Francisco,” said Breed.
The 2024 Afropolitan Ball featured a variety of notable attendees and guests from art, entertainment, fashion, and philanthropy. In attendance was San Francisco Mayor London Breed; notable figures Eric McDonnell, MoAD’s Board Chair; Afropolitan Ball Co-chairs Shannon Nash and Minjon LeNoir Hall; Ethan Beard and Wayee Chu, Danny and Mia Conway, Peggy Woolford Forbes, Dee Kerrison, George McCalman, Sherri McMullen, Joy Ofodu, and V. Joy Simmons; artists, museum and gallery figures including Carlo Abruzzese, Natasha Becker, Thomas P. Campbell, Alison Gass, Mary Graham, David C. Howse, Jocelyn Jackson, Karen Jenkins-Johnson, Jonathan Carver Moore, Jessica Monette, Rashaad Newsome, Ramekon O’Arwisters and Lava Thomas. (Pictured: Igor Simoes, V. Joy Simmons, Monetta White, Dee Kerrison, Jac Forbes)
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PHOTOS | Voices of Kibera 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
Event: Voices of Kibera 10 Year Anniversary Celebration
Date: October 2, 2024
Location: Fort Mason, San Francisco
Photos (34): Drew Altizer and Jessica Monroy for Drew Altizer Photography
The Human Needs Project (HNP) celebrated its 10th anniversary on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Fort Mason, San Francisco, raising an impressive $325,000 to support its work in Kibera, the largest slum in Africa. Hosted by acclaimed actress Connie Nielsen, the evening was a spectacular tribute to HNP’s decade-long impact, blending philanthropy, music, and community engagement.
The event featured an exciting silent auction, where two tickets to the worldwide premiere of Gladiator 2 in Los Angeles sold for $40,000. The exclusive package included access to the premiere viewing and a VIP after-party with the movie’s stars, including Connie Nielsen, who reprises her role as Lucilla, alongside Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal, and Paul Mescal.
The evening kicked off with an elegant cocktail reception overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, followed by a seated dinner. Master of Ceremonies Betty Yu kept the energy lively throughout the night, and guests were treated to inspiring performances by Kibera artist Daniel Futwax, HNP’s music producer and scholarship recipient, along with local Bay Area musicians Vicki Randall and Greg Loiacono. Academy Award-winning actress Susan Sarandon, a board member of HNP, delivered a heartfelt message via video, adding to the emotional depth of the evening.
Notable attendees included Connie Nielsen and David Warner, hosts of the event and founders of the Human Needs Project; philanthropists Katie and Todd Traina, who have been long-standing supporters of HNP’s mission in Kibera; Honorable Judge Ann Claire Williams, a champion of justice and human rights involved in global development efforts; Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation; Zem Joaquin, CEO of Near Future, Internet entrepreneur Sunil Paul, and Kristina Yarmolich, Executive Director of the Human Needs Project.
The event highlighted HNP’s programs, particularly the scholarships and opportunities provided to artists like Daniel Futwax, who recorded music in the Bay Area and Los Angeles through HNP’s partnership with top music studios and education programs, including LAMP (Los Angeles Academy for Artists and Music Production). HNP not only equips the community with basic needs services like clean water, education, sanitation, energy infrastructure and urban farming program but also empowers Kibera’s youth by showcasing their talent on the global stage.
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PHOTOS | Bloom Ball Celebrates Booker T. Washington Community Service Center, Raises $350k+
Event: Booker T. Washington Community Service Center “Bloom Ball”
Date: September 19, 2024
Location: Hotel Nikko, San Francisco
Photos (59): Katie Ravas and Devlin Shand for Drew Altizer Photography
The Booker T. Washington Community Service Center celebrated its inaugural Bloom Ball on Thursday, September 19, at the Hotel Nikko in San Francisco with 375 esteemed guests.
Guests celebrated Booker T.’s transformation and growth, honoring the center’s 105-year legacy serving as an anchor institution for San Francisco. The event raised more than $350,000 in critical funds to help the Center continue to expand their programs and provide affordable housing, and strengthen their commitment to helping more than 6,000 vulnerable San Franciscans thrive.
The gala featured a set by SF Giants’ DJ Umami, a 3-course, sit down dinner with a menu curated by Chef Fernay McPherson of Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement that featured produce from local, Black-stewarded farms, an awards ceremony honoring community members and SF luminaries like Senator John Burton, followed by a special afterparty in Feinstein’s Lounge at the Nikko with soulful entertainment by Martin Luther McCoy. ABC7 KGO morning news anchor Kumasi Aaron stepped out as the mistress of ceremonies. Guests showed off their formal style with a black tie optional sneaker ball dress code — tux and Chucks, ball gowns and Uptowns!
As one of the Bay Area’s oldest Black-led and serving nonprofits, Booker T. has nurtured over five generations of Black San Franciscans in the Fillmore/Western Addition. They keep the community housed with 50 units of on-site permanent, affordable, supportive housing for families, older adults and youth coming out of the foster care system; enable connection and joy for community elders; nourish 2,000 neighbors with culturally-relevant and nutritious groceries sourced from local Black farmers; root K-12 after school programs in a Freedom School model; and provide stabilization and wellness support so the community stays housed, well in spirit and body, and connected.
The evening was supported by presenting sponsor Stupski Foundation, as well as the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Deloitte, The Fragrance Group, NorCal Carpenters Union, University of California San Francisco, Collective Impact, Conventus Lending, Dodge & Cox, 3rd Street Youth Center & Clinic, African American Art & Culture Complex, African American Construction Collective, Bonner Communications, By the Bay Health, Claudine Cheng, Drew School, Japanese Community Youth Council, Prado Group, San Francisco Giants, Virginia Smyly, Zach Abrams/Stratim Capital and more!
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