The prestigious Aperture Gala 2025 celebrated Tyler Mitchell, one of the most influential photographers of his generation, recognizing his groundbreaking work documenting Black life through vibrant and celebratory imagery. The annual benefit, hosted by the 73-year-old New York-based nonprofit organization, brought together renowned artists and photographers to honor those advancing the conversation around photography.
Mitchell made history in 2018 when he photographed Beyoncé for Vogue's September issue, becoming the first African American photographer to shoot a Vogue cover story at just 23 years old. He also holds the distinction of being one of the youngest photographers ever to achieve this milestone. One of the images from this historic series was later acquired by the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, cementing its cultural significance.
The acclaimed photographer is known for his stirring portraits that explore themes of empowerment, identity, and community within Black culture. His recent work includes photographing the catalog for the Costume Institute's "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style" exhibition and overseeing a 30-page photo essay titled "A Portrait of the Modern Dandy," which was recently displayed at Gagosian Burlington Arcade in London.
Speaking at Jazz at Lincoln Center during the gala, Mitchell expressed his gratitude for the recognition. "I am overjoyed to be honored tonight," he said while beaming on stage. "As an artist, whenever your work is being acknowledged, you need to savor that moment. I'm very aware of that." He reflected on his time as a New York University student, when he "obsessively devoured every issue of Aperture" and attended any exhibition or opening he could access.
Mitchell described Aperture as "a beacon of possibility that helped guide him" throughout his career. The organization, founded 73 years ago, has inspired photography enthusiasts worldwide through its publications, exhibitions, public programming, and digital initiatives.
In September, Aperture published "Tyler Mitchell: Wish This Was Real," an early-career survey of the photographer's work. The comprehensive volume explores the subjects driving his artistic practice, from genre-fusing portraits captured across the United States, Europe, and West Africa, to photographs printed on diaphanous fabrics and sculptures referencing Black intellectual heritage. The book features perspectives from leading voices and includes a foreword by Anna Wintour, who writes about Mitchell's "self-determination and extraordinary elevation of the everyday."
A limited-edition version of the book, bound with custom metallic covers and posters, became a highly coveted item at the gala's live auction. Just weeks before the gala, the 30-year-old photographer unveiled images from "Wish This Was Real" as part of his highly anticipated first solo exhibition in Paris, which traces a decade of his creative evolution.
Concluding his acceptance speech, Mitchell thanked his mother and emphasized the importance of institutional support for artists. "As I stand here, I really hope I'm a reminder of the importance of institutions, curators, and gatekeepers to continue to engage with artists," he shared. "There are far too many who never receive their dues until it's too late. So, it is wonderful to be receiving that due at this moment."
The 2025 Aperture Gala successfully raised a total of $1 million, supporting the organization ahead of its relocation to a new home at 380 Columbus Avenue on the Upper West Side. The evening also honored Sarah Lewis, art and cultural historian and founder of Vision & Justice, who was introduced by Dr. Chelsea Clinton.
