Presented by Visual Studies Workshop

Gala Celebrating Dawoud Bey

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Celebrating Dawoud Bey at Visual Studies Workshop

VSW is delighted to honor visionary photographer, educator, and MacArthur Genius Fellow Dawoud Bey during a special evening of celebration.

VSW welcomes Dawoud Bey back to Western NY where he began his iconic street photography series over 40 years ago. Today Bey is known for his groundbreaking artworks that examine the Black past and present. 

Dawoud Bey is among the most important photographers working today, celebrated for a body of work that bears witness to the Black experience in America across five decades, with major works held in the permanent collections of major museums worldwide.

Dawoud Bey by Frank Ishman

Celebrating Dawoud Bey at Visual Studies Workshop

VSW is delighted to honor visionary photographer, educator, and MacArthur Genius Fellow Dawoud Bey during a special evening of celebration.

VSW welcomes Dawoud Bey back to Western NY where he began his iconic street photography series over 40 years ago. Today Bey is known for his groundbreaking artworks that examine the Black past and present. 

Dawoud Bey is among the most important photographers working today, celebrated for a body of work that bears witness to the Black experience in America across five decades, with major works held in the permanent collections of major museums worldwide.

Dawoud Bey by Frank Ishman

Don’t miss the opportunity to honor Dawoud Bey, make new connections, and support VSW’s mission to nurture expansive art and ideas.

This lively and inspiring evening features:

DJ & Multimedia Projections: an immersive sensory experience.

Portait Stations: have your portrait made with a vintage haloid xerox machine.

Art & Impact: tour the exhibition gallery and bid on artworks in the auction.

Food + Drink: charcuterie tables + appetizers by Farmhouse Table & an open bar.

Sponsorship opportunities are available between $250 – $5000. Click the Get Tickets button for sponsorship levels and more information. 

Individual tickets are $100 and go on sale August 15, 2026.

Attire is Dressy to Creative Casual

 

Sunday, October 4, 2026

In Conversation with Dawoud Bey, 2:00pm. Join VSW Curator Hernease Davis for a conversation with Dawoud Bey. 

Reserve your tickets today.