The Hamptons pulsed with energy and artistry during the annual Art & Soul: Hamptons festival, held July 18–20, 2025. The weekend celebration spotlighted the brilliance of Black creatives, blending visual art, live music, culinary experiences and community connection into one unforgettable cultural moment.
Curated in collaboration with the Southampton African American Museum (SAAM), Southampton Arts Center and Ma’s House & BIPOC Art Studio, the weekend was supported by SIGNATURE BRIDE magazine returning as a media sponsor.
“ART & SOUL is not just an event—it’s a declaration of presence, purpose and power,” says Yaya Reyes, festival producer. “We’re proud to gather the community and celebrate Black creativity in such a meaningful and elevated way.”
An inspiring mix of cultural influencers, artists, creatives and thought leaders brought their unique perspectives to the weekend, elevating ART & SOUL: Hamptons into a true celebration of Black excellence across disciplines. From actors and curators to designers, collectors and wellness experts, their presence added depth and vibrancy to the experience.
Special guests included award-winning actress Novi Brown (BET’s Sistas); philanthropist Jean Shafiroff; architect Peter Marino; beauty influencer Tatiana Lewis; Hamptons socialites and publishers Vanessa Gordon (East End Taste) and Vanessa Leggard (Hamptons MouthPiece); Dr. Georgette Grier-Key (Eastville Community Historical Society of Sag Harbor); host and entertainer Kevin Thompson; preservationist and writer Michael Henry Adams; Donna Roderick (National President, The Drifters Inc.); celebrity fashion stylist Esther Lamour; journalist Nikita Stewart (The New York Times); publisher Cynthia Horner (Right ON!); hotelier Dede Gotthelf (Southampton Inn); and Assembly Member Rebecca A. Seawright (NY Assembly District 76).
A Soulful Kickoff
The festivities began at the Southampton Arts Center with a red-carpet photo experience by renowned photographer Kurt Leggard. Guests immersed themselves in an outdoor art exhibition featuring the works of Reynoir Lewis, Laura R. Gadson and Suliman Onque, while enjoying intimate conversations with the artists.
Culinary artistry took center stage with tastings by Chef Cheryl Grigg of Chara’s Kitchen & Catering; Chef Doug Gee; Chef Anthony of Oh My Deliciousness; Chef Gucci of SMAC; Chef Joe and Chef Kay of Infusery–Caribbean Soul Food Chefs; and Saaz Indian Cuisine.
Guests also enjoyed a cocktail tasting experience curated by New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery, who presented Clark & Chesterfield Whiskey, Kingfish Rum, Monadnock Moonshine, Libation and Ashuelot.
And for the wine lovers, a champagne and wine tasting experience was presented by The Wine Stylings by Charles Springfield, which featured House of Henkel, IBest Wines, The Vice and HRLM Champagne.
The evening’s highlight was the screening of Erased: WW2 Heroes of Color, a four-part documentary series highlighting the contributions of BIPOC soldiers during World War II. The film was narrated by Idris Elba. The screening was followed by a powerful discussion with executive producer Sean David Johnson, moderated by SAAM founder and CEO Brenda Simmons.
Art Walk & VIP Brunch
The second day celebrated cultural exploration with a private tour of Ma’s House & BIPOC Art Studio, led by Shinnecock artist Jeremy Dennis, offering an inside look at contemporary Indigenous art.
The Art Walk continued at SAAM, featuring resident artist Shaunt’e Lewis, followed by a self-guided tour of Southhampton Arts Center and a visit to Hidden Gem NY, a luxury boutique founded by sisters Tanya Willock and Temidra Willock-Morsch that merges art, culture and modern design.
Closing the weekend was the VIP Hamptons Brunch, hosted by Brown Skin Brunchin’. Attendees enjoyed HRLM Champagne and wine by House of Henkel, curated menus, luxury gift bags and lively networking.
Music & Sponsors
Throughout the weekend, soulful rhythms filled the air with live performances by Yacouba Sissoko, the SIYA African Band, DJ Infmatick and flutist Dwayne Kerr of Erykah Badu’s band.
Additional sponsors included The Vice Champagne, Kingfish, Libation, Asuelot, Monadnock Moonshine, Clark & Chesterfield Whiskey, IBest Wines, Happy Bubble Soda, Saaz Restaurant, Infusery–Caribbean Soul Food Chefs, PAIJA Tea Co., The Nourish Pot, K Bloody Mary Mix and Hampton Gifts & Events.
Local partners included New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery, The Wine Stylings of Charles Springfield, Early Burdz and Hidden Gem NY. Event décor was designed by Planned by Sue, with floral arrangements by April & Ashley.
VIP Gifting Sponsors