PHOTOS BY PHILLIP KRAPOHL
FIA Communications & Marketing Manager
Organizers are thrilled to announce that the 2026 Community Gala was a resounding success. More than 400 guests attended, and approximately $98,000 was raised through sponsorships and ticket sales to support the expansion of the Flint Institute of Arts Museum + Art School’s collection of African American artworks.
The Flint Institute of Arts (FIA), in partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Flint, presented the 19th Annual Community Gala on Saturday, Jan. 31, at the FIA. This signature celebration honors Black history and showcases the creativity of African American artists with the opening of Gateways: African American Art from the Key Collection.
The evening began with a conversation between renowned art collector Eric Key and FIA Director and Curator of Collections and Exhibitions Sarah Kohn in the FIA Theater. A festive reception followed, featuring the exhibition opening in the Hodge and Temporary Galleries, live music by the Bleau Otis Band in Isabel Hall, and vocal performances by Jasmine Turman in the Community Foundation VIP Lounge. Guests also enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts by Redwood Steakhouse, a cash bar, and open access to all museum galleries.
Proceeds from the event support FIA exhibitions and the continued growth of the museum’s African American art collection.
“The Community Gala is a powerful expression of our mission to bring people together through art,” said Tracee Glab, FIA executive director. “We’re thrilled to celebrate this event and the Gateways exhibition with our community and our partners at the Community Foundation of Greater Flint.”
A returning sponsor, the Community Foundation of Greater Flint served as the Gala’s Signature Sponsor for the first time this year.
“Arts and culture are essential to a thriving community,” said Dan Kildee, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Flint. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to creativity, connection, and community-led solutions that help Flint and Genesee County thrive.”
