NYABJ Attends Art and Soul Hamptons Festival ‘25

By: Mana Faye

Over 400 guests gathered out east this past weekend for ART & SOUL: A Celebration of Black Art, Culture, and Community in the heart of the Hamptons. Produced by Yaya Rey, the festival marked the unofficial kickoff to summer in the region. “We’re proud to bring the community together and honor Black creativity in such a meaningful and elevated way,” Rey said.

The three-day event featured art exhibitions, artist meet-and-greets, culinary and sipping experiences, red carpet film screenings, vibrant live music, and curated gift bags from the swag bag queen herself, featuring standout brands like  Brownkind, Symphony of Leaves Tea Co, Allure Novembre, and more. Each day offered attendees the chance to fully immerse themselves in the neighborhood, the art, and the food.

Day one began at the Southampton Arts Center, where dozens of vendors showcased their talents during an exclusive culinary experience. The lineup included Chef Cheryl Grigg, Chef Doug Gee, Chef Anthony,  SMAC by Chef Gucci, Infusery, Hampton Gifts and Events, and Sazz Indian Cuisine Restaurant. Guests were greeted with a red carpet moment, beautifully captured by photographer Kurt Leggard.

Food and beverage vendors kept attendees refreshed throughout the day. Standouts included PAIJA Tea Co. for its jasmine-infused matcha and Happy Bubble Soda for its mango passion fruit refresher.

“My experience at Art & Soul Hamptons was absolutely amazing. I met incredible people, saw phenomenal art, and left feeling deeply inspired to create—and to come back next year. Exploring Southampton and Sag Harbor, taking in the breathtaking homes, and connecting with the land was powerful. I also had some of the best food ever! What really moved me was learning how deeply rooted the BIPOC community is in the culture and history of the Hamptons. It exceeded all my expectations—I’m already counting down to next year,” said Akilah H. Green.

Day two started with an art walk, featuring stops at the Southampton Arts Center, Hidden Gem, a Black-owned luxury boutique run by sisters Temidra and Tanya Willock—and a guided tour of the Southampton African American Museum by Brenda Simmons. The museum, formerly a Black-owned barbershop, is the first African American site to be designated as a historic site in the Village of Southampton. The tour coincided with the opening of Indiana-based artist Shaunt’e Lewis’ powerful exhibition. Known for her bold, vibrant work, Lewis’ pieces left attendees, including myself, in awe.

The night concluded with a spirited performance by Yacouba Sissiko, a master kora player from Mali, accompanied by the Siya African Band. DJ Infmatick wrapped up the evening with an energetic set that had the crowd dancing.

Attendee Aby Kane summed up the experience: “I had an amazing time at Art & Soul Hamptons! The event exceeded my expectations. I love being among Black creatives and entrepreneurs, not to mention the luxury! The event had a little bit of everything: art, history, great food, networking, and incredible fashion. I can’t wait to attend future Art & Soul events!”

Alongside the stellar cuisine, food and beverage vendors kept attendees refreshed. Standouts included PAIJA Tea Co for its delicious jasmine-infused matcha and Happy Bubble Soda for their mango passion fruit refresher.