Brooklyn Artists Ball Raises $4 Million for Museum

The 2025 Brooklyn Artists Ball, held at the Brooklyn Museum and sponsored by Dior, raised over $4 million to support museum exhibitions and programming. The event honored Ford Foundation president Darren Walker for his contributions to social justice and the arts, with Walker's acceptance speech emphasizing hope, community, and the role of artists in democracy. Attendees enjoyed a vibrant cocktail hour beneath KAWS sculptures, a dance performance by Jamel Gaines Creative Outlet, and a dinner in the Beaux-Arts Court transformed by artist Jeffrey Gibson. High-profile guests including Kerry Washington, Emma Roberts, Zazie Beetz, Keri Russell, and Lily Allen wore Dior ensembles, highlighting the brand's creative direction. Washington's sheer, gothic-inspired dress from Dior’s 2025 cruise collection was especially noted for its style and historical inspiration. The event underscored the vital role of cultural institutions in reflecting shared humanity and supporting artistic expression amid ongoing concerns about arts funding.