The Artists First Alliance’s Lively Benefête in the Rockaways

On Sept. 9, The Artists First Alliance—a collective consisting of Baxter St at CCNY, NXTHVN, and The Last Resort Artist Retreat—hosted a collaborative Benefête at the Rockaway Hotel in Queens. United by their shared missions and driven by a collective effort to make artistic residences more equitable, the three organizations joined together to create a collaborative fundraising event that uplifts their communities while directly funding each of their residency programs. The evening brought together a lively group of artists, philanthropists and cultural luminaries to the beachside hotel, where revelers enjoyed performances by Mark Ronson and Chuck D and sipped beverages by Maestro Dobel Tequila and Wölffer Estate. Notable attendees include Anne Pasternak, Kennedy Yanko, Hannah Traore, Mickaelene Thomas, Derrick Adams, Lutfi Janania, Titus Kaphar, Zoe Buckman, and more. Photos by Sansho Scott/BFA.