Hamptons Black Arts Council Welcomes MoMA’s Black Arts Council for a Day of Cultural Exchange
Hamptons Black Arts Council Welcomes MoMA’s Black Arts Council for a Day of Cultural Exchange
On July 19, 2025, the Hamptons Black Arts Council (HBAC) was honored to host members of the Museum of Modern Art’s Black Arts Council for a special day trip from New York City to the East End, fostering dialogue, connection, and shared appreciation for Black artistry and cultural heritage.
The day commenced with an exclusive tour of renowned contemporary artist Rashid Johnson’s studio. Guests were given a rare glimpse into Johnson’s creative process and the conceptual underpinnings of his practice, deepening their understanding of the artist’s influential contributions to contemporary art.
Following the studio visit, attendees gathered for a private luncheon set within the stunning sculptural gardens and home of AC and Thelma Hudgins, longtime patrons and champions of the arts. Surrounded by thoughtfully curated works and verdant landscapes, the luncheon provided a space for meaningful conversation, networking, and the exchange of ideas among artists, curators, and cultural leaders.
In the afternoon, the group ventured to The Church in Sag Harbor, an interdisciplinary arts center housed in a restored 19th-century Methodist church. The visit underscored the East End’s role as a vital hub for creative innovation and community engagement.
The day concluded with a highlight: an intimate walkthrough of MAMI WATA at the Eastville Community Historical Society, led by the exhibition’s curator and HBAC founder, Storm Ascher. Ascher offered insight into the exhibition’s thematic exploration of mythology, resilience, and diasporic narratives. Accompanying her, artist Tariku Shiferaw spoke about his two monumental works from the Mata Semay series featured in the show—paintings that had also been prominently highlighted at The Watermill Center’s Artist’s Table benefit for HBAC earlier in July. His reflections provided an enriched perspective on the interplay between personal heritage, formal abstraction, and broader cultural histories.
This collaborative day between MoMA’s Black Arts Council and HBAC reflected the shared mission of amplifying Black voices in the arts, building lasting connections, and celebrating the rich cultural fabric of the East End.
