Barnes Foundation celebrates work of Mickalene Thomas with exhibit, events and more

The Barnes Foundation is celebrating the first major international tour focused on the work of pioneering artist Mickalene Thomas, titled: ‘Mickalene Thomas: All About Love‘ with a plethora of programs inspired by the artist and her work.

Barnes Art Ball

On Friday, Oct. 18, at 7 p.m., the Barnes’ annual fundraiser will once again bring together artists, collectors, philanthropists, and more for the Barnes Art Ball, a night of diverse and dynamic creative experiences in celebration of Mickalene Thomas. During the event, the Barnes Foundation will welcome regional talent, including DJ Aura, a tastemaker and soundscape creator, pianist, composer, and beatmaker Black Buttafly, and The Illustrious Blacks, a DJ duo fusing funk, hypnotic house, and cosmic pop. The evening will also feature a special outdoor performance.

Update: Barnes Art Ball is now sold out.

Curators in Conversation

The Barnes will host, both live and online, an engaging talk on Sunday, Oct. 20, at 1 p.m. about ‘All About Love’ with artist Mickalene Thomas and exhibition curator Renée Mussai.

Update: On-site is now sold out, but online (livestream viewing) registration is still available.

Exhibition Tours: ‘All About Love’

Beginning Thursday, Oct. 24, The Barnes will host an in-depth exhibition tour for guests to learn more about Mickalene Thomas’s work and practice. The Barnes will also begin booking private exhibition tours, starting Oct. 24, for up to eight guests.

Class: Mickalene Thomas, Visual Pleasure, and Arts Activism

Beginning on Thursday, Oct. 24, guests can take a deep dive into the work of Thomas and other artists of similar affinities and explore the politics of curatorial activism with ‘All About Love’ curator Rénee Mussai.

First Friday

The Barnes’ ‘First Friday’ brings an evening of art, live music, and light fare on the first Friday of every month. On Nov. 1, the event will feature saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins. Dec. 6 will feature Yolanda Wisher & The Afroeaters, and Jan. 3 will see singer-songwriter Black Buttafly perform. All First Fridays come with access to the collection and ‘All About Love’.

PECO Free First Sunday Family Day

On the first Sunday of every month, the Barnes Foundation partners with PECO to offer a free day of family fun. Peco Free First Sunday offers art making, educational activities, and featured performances in addition to complimentary access to the Barnes collection and ‘All About Love.’ In November, the program will feature the Philadelphia Jazz Tap Ensemble, while beloved Philadelphia dance company PHILADANCO will be featured in December.