A photo by the Black Art Gallery Foundation’s Instagram shows attendees from the third annual Black Art Gala event.
The fourth annual Black Art Gala will take place at 6 PM on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the Straz Center. The Black Art Gala Foundation and Green Book of Tampa Bay, Inc., proudly present this event at the Ferguson Venue, in partnership with 101.5 The Vibe, Symphonic Distribution, The Tampa EDITION, the Barrymore Hotel, and Crown Royal.
This year’s theme, Black Art Gala: A Celebration of Black Excellence in Art and Culture, honors artists and community leaders who’ve shaped Tampa Bay’s cultural landscape. Sunday’s formal event showcases art exhibits by local artists, promoting cultural heritage and empowerment within the community.
The night’s events include:
- Fine Art Exhibits: Display of Tampa Bay’s finest African American artists
- Live Musical Performances: Musical performances from renowned local Black artists
- Community Connection: The chance to connect and celebrate community impact
- Cash Bar: Available refreshments
From 6 PM to 8PM, the artist village will open for guests to explore the gallery, meet the artists, and visit the photo booth. From 8 PM to 10 PM, the stage show performances will begin, followed by an awards ceremony.
Green Book of Tampa Bay’s Executive Director and the gala’s cohost, Dr. Hillary M. Van Dyke, shared her excitement for the night’s events.
“Event goers should expect to be amazed by Tampa Bay showing out! Everyone is dressed to the nines…As we continue to build this event, we hope to continue to support Justin Gray (member of the Producers’ Group Board for the Straz Center for the Performing Arts) and the Black Art Gala Foundation in making this Tampa Bay’s Met Gala,” said Dr. Van Dyke.
Jay Coachman, founder of Coachman Creations, is one of the featured artists showcased at Sunday’s event.
“My work centers on Black portraits and figures presented in a vibrant, authentic way. Each piece invites the viewer to look inward, sparking reflection, self-awareness, and a deeper connection to their own identity,” said Coachman.
Coachman wants attendees to take away from her pieces that they are “infinite, royal beings — Kings and Queens of the past, present, and future.”
The Black Art Gala Foundation was founded in 2022 and has since dedicated itself to celebrating and preserving the artistic achievements and advancements of African American artists.
Tickets are available on the Straz Center’s official website. Secure your spot and join a night of festivities fueled by culture, community, and artistry.
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More Photos
A photo from greenbooktb’s Instagram shows the event’s flyer.
A photo from greenbooktb’s Instagram shows Green Book of Tampa Bay’s Vice President, Dr. Hillary M. Van Dyke.
A photo from greenbooktb’s Instagram shows art from the third annual Black Art Gala event.
A photo from greenbooktb’s Instagram shows art from the third annual Black Art Gala event.
