The Black Artists + Designers Guild (BADG) recently hosted its inaugural BADG of Honor event in New York City on October 31, 2022. This highly anticipated event was a celebration of the brilliant and innovative Black visionaries in the art, architecture, and design industry. Kesha Franklin, a prominent member of BADG, served as the host for the event, which aimed to recognize and honor the outstanding contributions of five designers and tastemakers who have embraced and celebrated their Black heritage while making remarkable strides in their respective fields.
The BADG of Honor event showcased the talents and achievements of this year’s honorees, who each received an award for their exceptional work. Mashonda Tifrere, the visionary founder of ArtLeadHER, was presented with the Collective Circle Award in recognition of her groundbreaking efforts in the industry. Walter Hood, the creative director and founder of Hood Design Studio, was honored with the Founder Award for his groundbreaking contributions to the field. Franklin Sirmans, the esteemed director of Pérez Art Museum Miami, received the Legacy Award for his remarkable impact and influence on the art world. Dr. Dori Tunstall, the esteemed dean of design at OCAD University, was recognized with the Education Award, commending her invaluable contributions to design education. Lastly, Jomo Tariku, a talented industrial and furniture designer, was bestowed with the BADG Maker Award for his exceptional craftsmanship and innovation.
In addition to celebrating the achievements of these remarkable individuals, the BADG of Honor event also featured the ‘Black Joy’ auction, which is set to run until November 10. The auction boasts an array of coveted collectibles, exclusive services, and extraordinary experiences generously donated by esteemed companies such as Apparatus, Kravet Furniture, Mikel Welch, and Chantel Walkes. The proceeds from this auction will be dedicated to supporting ongoing BADG initiatives and furthering the Guild’s mission.
Guests at the event were treated to delectable Jamaican-infused bites curated by celebrity chef Brittney ‘Stikxz’ Williams, along with signature cocktails. The night was truly energetic and inclusive, with a lively dance party featuring an eclectic mix of hip hop, reggae, and R&B music curated by DJ Point Blank, ensuring that everyone in attendance felt the vibrant spirit of the celebration.
Furthermore, the BADG took the opportunity during the event to announce the launch of their new Creative Visionary Grant. This grant will provide three outstanding Black creatives with $10,000 each to support their innovative projects in the realms of art, architecture, and design. The submission process for the grant will open on November 1, with the recipients expected to be announced in the spring of 2023. This exciting initiative demonstrates BADG’s commitment to nurturing and fostering Black talent within the creative industry.
Established in 2018 by visionary leader Malene Barnett, the Black Artists + Designers Guild is an organization driven by its members’ collective strength and passion. BADG is dedicated to promoting equity and inclusivity within the creative culture by uplifting and advancing Black artists and designers. The BADG of Honor event serves as a vital platform for acknowledging and celebrating the remarkable achievements of Black creatives and their invaluable contributions to the industry. Through initiatives like the Creative Visionary Grant, the Bad Artists + Designers Guild continues to champion and support the remarkable work of Black talent in the art and design world.
Link 1: Black Artists + Designers Guild Official Website
Link 2: Pérez Art Museum Miami Official Website
