The Lower East Side of Manhattan was abuzz with excitement as the art gallery closed its doors for the day, only to see a stream of guests wandering in. What caught their eye was a long dinner table set for 30 people amidst the paintings on the walls.
The evening was a unique blend of art, fashion, and food, with Alex Delany from the Sound Radio show spinning 1970s-era Guinean and Ethiopian jazz and funk while guests in high-end designer wear mingled around. Chef Roze Traore served up plates of poached lobster with West African-inspired toppings, showcasing a fusion of flavors.
The event, described as a West African-themed-dinner-party-exhibition-opening-fashion-extravaganza, was a private opening for Mr. Traore’s pop-up dinner exhibition series. The series aims to showcase artists from a residency he has created in his Ivory Coast boutique hotel, bridging the gap between Africa and the rest of the world.
Hannah Traore Gallery, hosting the pop-up, focuses on highlighting artists historically marginalized from mainstream narratives. The exhibition, titled “Returning to Bassam: Art That Money Can’t Buy,” features works from various artists and aims to bring attention to the diverse talent present.
Celebrities like Kehinde Wiley, known for his painting of President Barack Obama, were in attendance, immersing themselves in the vibrant artwork on display. The night was filled with lively conversations about art, music, and culture, creating a multidisciplinary experience for all.
As guests sat down for dinner, surrounded by giant centerpieces made of banana leaves and coconuts, the conversation continued to flow. The chef’s creations, including lamb bathed in peanut sauce and West African spice blends, left everyone in awe.
The evening was a celebration of creativity and collaboration, with guests like Kilo Kish and Edvin Thompson discussing the importance of gratitude and artistic expression. As the night came to a close, the chef received a round of applause, emphasizing the impact of bringing together art, food, and culture in a unique and inspiring way.
