NBAF FINE ART PRINT EXHIBITION
NBAF is excited to partner with Bloomingdale’s and Atlanta Fashion Week to celebrate Black artistic excellence with an art exhibition of works from the National Black Arts Festival Fine Art Print Collection. NBAF commissioned master artists to create fine art prints of original works between 1987 and 2007, supporting Black artists while expanding the visibility, preservation, and appreciation of Black visual culture. Many of the prints in the collection were printed and published by the Brandywine Workshop in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and the Experimental Printmaking Institute in Lafayette, Pennsylvania.
Together, these works reflect NBAF’s longstanding commitment to shaping culture, advancing artistic excellence, deepening cultural understanding through the visual arts and stewarding the stories that shape our shared cultural future.
NBAF will make select works available to collectors interested in acquiring print works by these legacy artists. For purchasing inquiries email ahicks@nbaf.org.
TYSHAWN SOREY TRIO
Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist Tyshawn Sorey leads a powerhouse trio featuring Grammy-nominated pianist Aaron Diehl and acclaimed bassist Harish Raghavan — a collaboration The New York Times hails as “stunning.”
Formed in 2021, the Tyshawn Sorey Trio has quickly become one of the most vital voices in modern jazz, releasing three critically acclaimed albums: Mesmerism (2023), Continuing (2023), and The Susceptible Now (2024). Their sound artfully flows through a range of musical styles and moods performing original compositions to reimagined versions of the American Songbook.
Coming off a celebrated run at the Village Vanguard and tour stops across the US and Europe with performances in London, at the 92nd St Y in New York, and at the Big Ears Festival. The Trio brings a fresh, emotionally charged perspective to the jazz repertoire, thrilling audiences with every performance.
Tickets are $35 for the general public; $15 for seniors, military, and alumni; and $10 for SCAD students, faculty, and staff. For more information or questions about tickets, email scadshow@scad.edu.
Fine Art + Fashion 2026
2026 marks a milestone year for Fine Art + Fashion, and we are turning the spotlight all the way up. For two dazzling decades, this signature celebration has fused fine art, fashion, and unapologetic fabulousness. NBAF, in partnership with Neiman Marcus Atlanta, gathers the city’s stylemakers, tastemakers, and culture lovers for an unforgettable evening where creativity meets purpose and glamour fuels impact.
This twentieth anniversary edition honors the evolution of excellence in design and visual artistry while raising vital funds for NBAF’s youth arts education programs. The night shines with four prestigious awards: the Radcliffe Bailey Excellence in Visual Art Award, the Fashion Designer Extraordinaire Award, the Fashion Forward Student Award, and the NextGen Visionary Art Award.
Join us as we champion NBAF’s Youth Arts initiatives, because ART IN EDUCATION IS A GOOD LOOK.
Attire: Creative Fashion Forward
Complimentary Valet
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20th Anniversary Co-Chairs
Honorary Co-Chairs - Vicki & John Palmer
Event Co-Chairs - Melissa Leyva Valladares & Richard Valladares
20th Anniversary Host Co-Chairs - Carol Waddy & Helen Mitchell
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Fine Art + Fashion 2026 Patron and Sponsorship Levels
Presenting - $25,000 (10 seats)
Platinum - $15,000 (8 seats)
Gold - $10,000 (6 seats)
Silver - $5,000 (4 seats)
Patron - $2,500 (2 seats)
Individual- $750 (1 seat)
20th Anniversary Host Committee - $7,500 level (4 seats)
Contact Judy Hanenkrat at jhanenkrat@nbaf.org or 404-372-4572 to join the Host Committee, become a Sponsor or to learn more.
THRIVING TOGETHER ATLANTA MOBILE ART EXPERIENCE + BLVD NEXT
The Thriving Together Mobile Art Experience wraps up with our final stop in Old 4th Ward. The Mobile Art Experience, a roving, immersive platform for public art, healing, and education, was designed to meet people where they are, serving as both a literal and symbolic vehicle for wellness, storytelling, and cultural expression. At each stop, the bus has hosted a curated salon experience which includes a performance, education and healing arts. All delivered within or around the mobile bus environment.
The Mobile Art Experience is part of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge which brings NBAF in partnership with The City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and Out of Hand Theater. The Mobile Art Experience has been designed and curated by NEXT Atlanta.
Presented in partnership with MARTA
CREATIVELY SPEAKING: BEYOND THE FRAME
Join the National Black Arts Festival for an intimate collector-centered conversation exploring the art of collecting work from the African diaspora. Part of NBAF’s Creatively Speaking conversation series, Beyond the Frame looks beyond market value to examine why collecting matters: preservation, legacy, and cultural stewardship.
The conversation features Atlanta-based collector Kimberly Fisher, who alongside her husband, Dr. Dameon Fisher, has built a collection centered on the preservation and advancement of African American visual narratives. The conversation is facilitated by April Wright, NBAF Director of Individual Giving.
This public gathering offers collectors, aspiring collectors, and art lovers a welcoming space to engage in a meaningful dialogue about collecting and the importance of supporting artists of the African diaspora. Space is limited. Please RSVP below.
ECHOES OF THE STORM: 20 YEARS AFTER KATRINA
Echoes of the Storm situates one of the nation’s most defining recent events within the continuum of remembrance and resilience. Developed by Junebug Productions and The Apollo Theater, this theatrical commemoration marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, a catastrophe that exposed the deep fractures of race, class, and policy in America while revealing the boundless strength of the Black South.
Eight playwrights craft a mosaic of ten-minute plays reflecting on the storm’s enduring impact.
Through intimate storytelling, dramatized memory, and documentary-style narrative, these works explore themes of loss, migration, home, and rebirth, tracing how the storm continues to shape identity and imagination two decades later.
Echoes of the Storm is presented in collaboration with Spelman College and in partnership with The Apollo Theater, and Junebug Productions. Directed by Aku Kadogo.
CREATIVELY SPEAKING: BLACK THEATRE THEN, NOW, & NEXT
Join the National Black Arts Festival for an evening of bold ideas, honest assessment, and forward vision as we chart the trajectory of Black theatre across regions, institutions, and generations.
This edition of Creatively Speaking brings together two visionary leaders shaping the field today: Kelley Girod, Director of New Works at the Apollo Theater, and Stephanie McKee, Executive Artistic Director of Junebug Productions. The conversation is facilitated by Addae Moon, Associate Artistic Director of Theatrical Outfit.
The discussion begins in the South, exploring the rich legacy of Black Southern theatre as a space for storytelling, resistance, and community truth telling. From grassroots ensembles to movement-based companies, Southern Black theatre has long nurtured artists and narratives that challenge and redefine American culture. From there, the conversation expands nationally, examining the current state of Black theatre across Broadway, regional institutions, and independent stages, asking where breakthroughs are happening, where barriers remain, and what must shift to ensure Black theatre continues to thrive from local communities to the largest platforms in the country.
This program serves as a companion to NBAF’s collaborative staged reading of Echoes of The Storm: 20 Years After Katrina, presented with Spelman College on March 20 and 21 at the Mary Schmidt Campbell Center for Innovation and the Arts. Together, the reading and conversation underscore theatre’s role as a living archive of Black memory, place, and possibility.
Registration required below.
FASHION FORWARD STUDENT DESIGN COMPETITION
NBAF is NOW accepting applications for the 2026 Fashion Forward Student Design Mentorship and Competition! Applications are due on Sunday, March 15, 2026 by 11:59 PM (EST). Read below to see program requirements. Please direct all queries to Judy Hanenkrat, jhanenkrat@nbaf.org.
The Fashion Forward Student Design Mentorship & Competition expands NBAF’s mission to advance the work and visibility of Black creatives. Designed to support the next generation of creative leaders in the fashion design space, the Mentorship program gives student designers access to expert-led sessions focused on design development, technical skills, brand storytelling, portfolio building, and professional preparation, all led by accomplished designers, stylists, educators, and industry leaders who provide the structured support needed to strengthen their creative practice and competitive edge.
One honoree will be selected by a distinguished panel of judges and receive a $1,500 cash prize, be presented at NBAF’s Fine Art + Fashion Event on April 29, 2026 and be showcased.
Eligibility
NBAF accepts applications from students of African descent who are:
Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university fashion design degree program.
In good standing in an accredited college or university fashion design program.
Possess leadership qualities in their personal life and professional aspirations.
Available to attend Fine Art + Fashion 2026 on April 29, 2026.
CREATIVELY SPEAKING: WHO GETS TO SING AMERICA?
Join NBAF as we gather visionary artist’s and thinker’s Carrie Mae Weems, Marc Bamuthi Joseph, & Dr. Daniel Black in a discussion moderated by Errin Haines to explore a defining question for this moment: Who gets to shape the story of this nation? This conversation examines America as an unfinished composition, a story continuously reframed by creativity, cultural memory, and imagination. Through a dynamic dialogue at the intersection of art, history, and identity, the panel considers how Black voices have expanded, challenged, and co-authored the American narrative, and what it means to claim authorship as the nation enters its next chapter.
Who Gets To Sing America is supported by Georgia Humanities, in partnership with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, through funding from the Georgia General Assembly. NBAF’s Creatively Speaking conversation series focuses on art, culture and ideas.
THRIVING TOGETHER ATLANTA MOBILE ART EXPERIENCE
NBAF Presents the Thriving Together Atlanta Mobile Art Experience, a roving, immersive platform for public art, healing, and education. Designed to meet people where they are, the Mobile Art Bus serves as both a literal and symbolic vehicle for wellness, storytelling, and cultural expression. At each stop, the bus hosts a curated salon experience which includes a performance, education and healing arts. All delivered within or around the mobile bus environment. At the next stop there will be performances by Kenny Banks, Jr. (jazz pianist), Jon Goode (poet/author/host of The Moth), Malaika Floyd (sound bowl practitioner), Bria Anai (vocalist) and KHILA (choreographer, dancer). Exhibition portraits by Iyahdae Rose.
The Mobile Art Experience is part of the Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge which brings NBAF in partnership with The City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and Out of Hand Theater. The Mobile Art Experience has been designed and curated by NEXT Atlanta.
Presented in partnership with MARTA
ECHOES OF THE STORM: 20 YEARS AFTER KATRINA
Echoes of the Storm situates one of the nation’s most defining recent events within the continuum of remembrance and resilience. Developed by Junebug Productions and The Apollo Theater, this theatrical commemoration marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, a catastrophe that exposed the deep fractures of race, class, and policy in America while revealing the boundless strength of the Black South.
Eight playwrights craft a mosaic of ten-minute plays reflecting on the storm’s enduring impact.
Through intimate storytelling, dramatized memory, and documentary-style narrative, these works explore themes of loss, migration, home, and rebirth, tracing how the storm continues to shape identity and imagination two decades later.
Echoes of the Storm is presented in collaboration with Spelman College and in partnership with The Apollo Theater, and Junebug Productions. Directed by Aku Kadogo.
New Orleans Groove Masters
The New Orleans Groove Masters make their BroadStage debut just in time for Mardi Gras, with an electrifying evening that will transport you to the bayou and have you dancing in your seat! Herlin Riley, Weedie Braimah, and Jason Marsalis are widely regarded as three of the best living percussionists in the world, and they are joined by a stellar ensemble on piano, bass, and saxophone to celebrate the rhythmic traditions of New Orleans. Steeped in both the traditional drumming and contemporary styles of the region, the Groove Masters perform a dynamic collection of original compositions and beloved repertoire from the musical canon of the Crescent City.
Herlin Riley – drums, percussion, tambourine
Weedie Braimah – percussion
Jason Marsalis – drums, percussion, vibes
Roderick Paulin – saxophone
Kyle Roussel – piano
Max Moran – bass
LA Voices ICYOLA: I, Too, Sing America-
In honor of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026, this Inner City Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles (ICYOLA) concert season adopts the theme “I, Too, Sing America” — a direct homage to the iconic Langston Hughes poem published a century ago. This centennial reflection invites audiences to celebrate the enduring promise of America: a promise that continues to expand and include the voices, stories, and artistic contributions of all its people. Through this theme, we recognize the past, affirm our presence, and declare a future shaped by unity, equity, and cultural expression.
This event is part of The Ebell’s slate of Black History Month programming.
Mardi Gras at Smorgasburg LA
Laissez les bons temps rouler! Embrace the celebratory spirit of Mardi Gras, Smorgasburg-style with big flavors and festive New Orleans vibes. Order a po’ boy sandwich or get your gumbo on, grab some jambalaya and finish with a slice of King cake. Enjoy the great food from the Big Easy, a curated shopping experience, dance to a live brass band, 63 Degrees Official. There will be tons of beads, mask making with Sketch LA, or you can build a horn with the Inner City Youth Orchestra LA, plus Preciosa Night DJs, bar specials, and so much more!
Power of Love: Opening Reception
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Compton Art & History Museum at the opening of The Power of Love. Enjoy an evening of wine, light bites, and live jazz highlighting this immersive exhibition exploring the healing, restorative, and transformative power of love in its multiple forms. —through powerful, all–Black women artists whose work centers on love as care, resistance, healing, and joy.
In honor of Black History Month, curator Saidah Gray brings together a powerful celebration of Black love in its many forms.
This exhibition highlights the love that shapes our lives through art that is healing, restorative, and transformative, featuring works by Black women artists. The show explores:
Eros: romantic and passionate connection
Philia: deep friendship and community
Storge : familial love, roots, and nurture
Philautia : self-love, healing, and becoming
Spend a beautiful Valentine’s evening. Bring your partner, your girls, friends or your family! Enjoy great food, wine, live jazz, stunning art, and the love of community.
Art Melanated Presents: SAVAGE Opening Reception
SAVAGE is a global emerging artist competition produced by Art Melanated, dedicated to elevating new voices in contemporary visual art through exhibition and professional opportunity. Inspired by the legacy of artist and educator Augusta Savage, the initiative champions access, equity, and the long-term development of emerging artists.
Following an international open call and a rigorous jury process, eleven finalists were selected to exhibit at Band of Vices in Los Angeles from February 14–March 14, 2026. The exhibition opens with a public Opening Reception on Saturday, February 14, from 3:00–6:00 PM. One finalist will receive a $10,000 grand prize.
Come see the work and meet the artists!
SAVAGE serves as both a competition and a platform, investing in the future of contemporary culture by supporting the next generation of visual artists.
Love N Basketball All-Star Week Street Festival
Be part of an iconic Inglewood cultural moment. It’s time for the Love N Basketball All-Star Block Party and Street Festival. Bring your crew, bring your boo, and come feel the LOVE in the city. All-Star Weekend starts here!
Here’s what you can expect: an exciting 3-on-3 basketball tournament featuring Nick Young (Swaggy P) & Jason Martin (Problem,) live music with the celebrity stage powered by DJ Bobcat, beer & wine garden, retail & food vendors, plus health screenings and resources and referrals.
Red Harlem
Based on true events when the Communist Party in the Soviet Union courted African American actors during the Great Depression
Love The Skin You’re In
Celebrate storytelling and community Dec 17–23 at Laemmle NOHO 7. This indie film brings emotion, beauty, and authenticity to the big screen. Bring friends and enjoy meaningful cinema. LOVE THE SKIN YOU’RE IN stars iconic talents Marla Gibbs, Obba Babatundé, Wendy Raquel Robinson, and Executive Producer Sauda Johnson-McNeal, delivering a powerful narrative of faith, caregiving, healing, and self-worth. And trust me — the music in this film is EVERYTHING.
Tickets Are Available here: https://www.laemmle.com/film/love-skin-youre
Key Highlights:
Inspiring story of emotional healing and resilience
Amplifies mental health awareness and self-care advocacy
Honors Black women’s legacy of strength and community leadership
Promotes family unity, sisterhood, and forgiveness
Debuting in theaters December 17–23, 2025, at Laemmle’s NoHo 7 in North Hollywood, CA. Let’s uplift and celebrate independent Black filmmakers this Holiday Season!
"Art is healing" paint workshop
Let your creativity flow as you paint your stress away. We will begin with a few tips on managing the stress that occurs in your daily life. Then the Sparkling Artist, Viveca Mays will give you step-by-step instructions to create something calming and beautiful to take home and be proud of.
No experience necessary - just bring your enthusiasm and we'll provide all the supplies, instructions, and snacks to keep you energized.
A collaborative event presented by:
African Heritage Connection Club
Black America Resource Directory
African American Family Wellness Advisory Group
The Black Arts Museum
Join us for a local history presentation uncovering the underground music scene that once flourished in Downtown Riverside. Presented by John "Riverside's Plumber" Dixon and 98 Posse
Join us for a local history presentation uncovering the underground music scene that once flourished in Downtown Riverside.
Presented by John "Riverside's Plumber" Dixon and 98 Posse - @riversidesplumber
Learn more about this event on Instagram
Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival
The free community celebration on October 18 offers a preview of what's to come at the main festival on November 9
VP Records will host Taste of Jerk, the official kickoff for the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, at its retail store in Miramar, Florida, on Saturday, October 18, from 2:00 to 7:00 p.m. The free community event will feature live music, food samples, and giveaways.
Held at the VP Records Retail Store (6022 SW 21st St, Miramar, FL), Taste of Jerk offers a glimpse of the food, music, and culture that make the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival one of South Florida's leading Caribbean events. Attendees can enjoy jerk and other island favorites from Grace Foods, HTB, Nocturnal Shrimp Shack, and more. Voice of the Caribbean will broadcast live with radio and TV personality Suzie Q and DJ OD, selecting reggae and soca tunes throughout the afternoon. Family-friendly activities and ticket giveaways to the main festival will round out the day.
Now in its 23rd year, the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, presented by Publix and VP Records, is the largest Caribbean food festival in the United States. The annual event blends culinary showcases and live performances from top Caribbean entertainers with cultural exhibitions, games, and activities for all ages. This year's festival takes place on Sunday, November 9, at Miramar Regional Park.
For more information, visit: www.jerkfestival.com.
DREAMSCAPE: a journey of spoken word, hip hop, and beatboxing through the story of Myiesha. By Rickerby Hinds.
Experience DREAMSCAPE: a journey of spoken word, hip hop, and beatboxing through the story of Myiesha.