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TEFAF TALKS

Art and Philanthropy: The Intersection of Collecting, Board Leadership, and Social Impact

This two-part conversation explores how private collecting and institutional leadership can drive public impact, from individual philanthropy and board engagement to museum-led social initiatives

TEFAF Talk

FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026

1:00PM — 2:00PM EDT
VETERANS ROOM, TEFAF NEW YORK

 

Please note, registration is mandatory but free to TEFAF New York ticket holders
 

Overview

TEFAF Talks are interactive panel discussions exploring today’s most fascinating topics in the worlds of art, antiques, and design. Paired with leading content partners, these talks showcase the expertise of leading professionals in the broader TEFAF community. This talk is presented in partnership with Bank of America, Lead Partner of TEFAF New York, and moderated by Drew Watson, Managing Director, Head of Art Services at Bank of America. 

Part I. Individual Philanthropy: Collecting and Board Leadership 

This conversation brings together J.K. Brown and Eric Diefenbach to reflect on their journeys in collecting and cultural stewardship, drawing on their board leadership at institutions including the New Museum, Rauschenberg Foundation, Lincoln Center, and the Aldrich Museum. They discuss the role of individual philanthropy in shaping institutional vision, governance, and long-term stewardship, as well as the responsibilities and opportunities that come with supporting the arts.

Panelists

Drew watson bofa com
Drew Watson Managing Director, Head of Art Services, Bank of America (Moderator)
BFA 27434 3423433 2
James Keith Brown Collector
BFA 27434 3423433 1
Eric Diefenbach Collector

Part II. Institutional Philanthropy: Museums and Social impact – Memphis Brooks Museum 

The discussion will expand to consider institutional philanthropy through the lens of the Memphis Brooks Museum, with Barbara Hyde, Derek Fordjour, and Zoe Kahr. Together, they will explore the evolving role of collecting and museum building as Memphis prepares for a new downtown art museum shaped by community-driven vision. The panel will examine how cultural institutions catalyze civic engagement and why public-minded leadership is essential to building vibrant, inclusive cultural ecosystems with lasting social impact.

Panelists

Drew watson bofa com
Drew Watson Managing Director, Head of Art Services, Bank of America (Moderator)
Barbara R Hyde
Barbara R. Hyde Board of Directors, Memphis Brooks Museum; Chair & CEO - Hyde Family Foundation
Derek Fordjour Preferred 1
Derek Fordjour Artist
Zoe Kahr 1
Zoe Kahr Executive Director, Memphis Brooks Museum

Location & Access 

Please arrive 5 minutes before the program starts. Kindly note that late arrivals may not be permitted entry, and your spot could be given to another guest.

Programming will take place at the TEFAF Veterans Room on the first floor of the Park Avenue Armory, TEFAF New York. The event will be recorded. Please note, registration is mandatory but free to TEFAF New York ticket holders. 

For questions about registration contact: 
[email protected]