A Night to Remember

On October 30, 2025, friends, supporters, artists, and cultural leaders came together high above Times Square for CONJUR: A Masked Affair, the Romare Bearden Foundation’s 35th Anniversary Gala.

It was an evening filled with joy, art, and community—complete with a rooftop cocktail reception, a vibrant mask-making tradition inspired by Bearden’s Conjur Woman collages, heartfelt honoree tributes, and a celebration of the Foundation’s impact across three and a half decades.

Whether you joined us in person or are reliving the evening from afar, we invite you to explore the highlights below.

Event Highlights

Honoring Vision, Leadership & Creative Impact

We were proud to recognize four remarkable leaders whose work embodies Bearden’s spirit of innovation, community, and cultural transformation:

• Dr. Mary Schmidt Campbell — Visionary Award
  Renowned art historian, educator, and former president of Spelman College.

• Titus Kaphar — Inspiration Award
  Acclaimed contemporary artist whose work redefines historical narratives.

• Reginald Van Lee — Leadership Award
  Distinguished business leader, arts advocate, and champion of social impact.

• Lola C. West — Catalyst Award
  Philanthropist and financial strategist advancing racial and gender equity.

Hosted By: Marc Morial & Michelle Miller

Our emcees guided the evening with warmth, brilliance, and energy—bringing stories, laughter, and depth to our 35th anniversary celebration.

Special Features of the Night

• Live rooftop music

• Three-course dinner overlooking the skyline

• Artist-designed masks honoring the “Conjur” theme

• Live silent auction featuring extraordinary works

Why CONJUR Matters

For 35 years, the Romare Bearden Foundation has preserved and advanced the legacy of one of America’s most influential artists.
Your support at CONJUR fuels:

• Artist fellowships and mid-career support

• Free educational programming for students and families

• The digital Catalogue Raisonné

• National exhibitions and publications

• Community partnerships honoring Black cultural legacy

This work is only possible because of you.

Save the Date — CONJUR 2026

If you were with us this year, we can’t wait to welcome you back.
If you missed it—this is your chance to make sure you’re part of an unforgettable celebration next time.

Join Our Mailing List to be the first to know when tickets go on sale.

If the evening inspired you, we invite you to stay engaged:

• Make a Gift
• Learn About the Catalogue Raisonné
• Explore Bearden’s Life & Work
• Join Our Newsletter

Together, we carry Bearden’s vision forward—and imagine the next 35 years.