Nasher Sculpture Center’s Biennial “Nasher Prize” Gala Honors Nigerian & Belgian Artist Otobong Nkanga In Dallas

Esteemed Museum Offers An Elegant Evening Filled With Art & Philanthropy

By Rob Giardinelli     Photography by Exploredinary, Can Turkylimaz and Jonathan Zizzo

THE SCENE: The stunning grounds of the Nasher Sculpture Center in Dallas were the setting for an unforgettable night of fun and fundraising for one of North Texas’ most beloved spaces. Several hundred of the area’s top art patrons, nature lovers, sociables, and philanthropists were on hand for the 2025 Nasher Prize Award Gala. Benefiting the eponymous Nasher Sculpture Center, the biennial event dazzled the crowd, leaving them wanting more.

THE VIBE: The artfully attired black-tie crowd featured an elegant mix of traditional formalwear and ballgowns that seamlessly mixed in with bold colors, prints, and metallics worn by the well-heeled crowd of patrons. Some even took advantage of those rare, brisk yet pleasant spring nights to add an additional layer to their ensembles. The result was a celebratory, festive environment for all who attended.

The festivities started with a cocktail hour inside the Nasher Sculpture Center Museum, held in the exhibit of the 2025 Nasher Prize Laureate, Nigerian/Belgian Artist Otobong Nkanga, running through August 17, 2025. As guests sipped on champagne and their favorite spirits, they had a chance to tour Nkanga’s stunning exhibit Each Seed A Body to view her inspiring, thought-provoking art. Patrons also had the opportunity to congratulate the acclaimed artist in person for her well-deserved honor.

The crowd, summoned by dancers from Bruce Wood Dance, took their seats for dinner and the main program. Jaws dropped upon entering the beautiful tent erected on the Nasher Sculpture Center Grounds, which was adorned with an array of vibrant, lush green plants courtesy of Bows + Arrows.

As guests dined on their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words by organization and event leaders thanking them for being part of such a memorable evening. The program festivities were capped off with Nancy Nasher heading to the stage to present the 2025 Nasher Prize Laureate to Otobong Nkanga, whose contagious enthusiasm wowed the crowd and brought them to their feet.

Revelers then gathered back in the museum for a lively after-party. The fun continued well into the night as guests danced the night away to the tunes of DJ Elkin Pau.

THE NON-PROFIT: The 2025 Nasher Prize Award Gala was co-chaired by Matrice Ellis-Kirk and Lucilo Peña. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Nasher Sculpture Center to fund programs and strategic initiatives, including exhibitions, education, and community initiatives.