MacDowell Honors Lythcott and Eisenberg at Benefit

The annual National Benefit at Gotham Hall recognized two leaders for their significant contributions to the arts.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Awards

Gouache-painted illustration of bronze laurel leaves on a wooden surface, representing the arts advocacy awards benefit. — MacDowell honored Sade Lythcott and Tina Roth Eisenberg at its National Benefit in New York City for their commitment to arts advocacy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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MacDowell held its annual National Benefit at Gotham Hall in New York City to honor Sade Lythcott and Tina Roth Eisenberg. Both individuals were recognized for their work in supporting and championing creative artists.

Why it matters

The event celebrated influential figures who have expanded the reach and infrastructure of the arts. These honors highlight the efforts of leaders dedicated to fostering creative communities and building long-term resources for artists.

Sade Lythcott has led the National Black Theatre since 2008, while Tina Roth Eisenberg oversees a global CreativeMornings community of 25,000 members. The National Black Theatre is currently planning a $100 million redevelopment project in Harlem.

The players

Sade Lythcott

She is the leader of the National Black Theatre and a recipient of the Marian MacDowell Arts Advocacy Award.

Tina Roth Eisenberg

She is the founder of the lecture series CreativeMornings and a recipient of the Hillcrest Arts Impact Award.

MacDowell

This institution supports creative artists and organizes the annual National Benefit held at Gotham Hall.

The details

MacDowell presented the Marian MacDowell Arts Advocacy Award to Lythcott and the Hillcrest Arts Impact Award to Eisenberg. The ceremony at Gotham Hall featured various performances and testimonials honoring the recipients.

Sade Lythcott began her tenure leading the National Black Theatre in 2008.
MacDowell hosted its annual National Benefit on October 27, 2026.

Culture Shift

The MacDowell National Benefit serves as a historical benchmark for recognizing those who build sustainable artistic institutions. This approach reflects a broader shift toward honoring community-led infrastructure over individual creative output alone.

Residents may see an increase in local arts initiatives as these leaders continue to expand their respective organizations. The upcoming $100 million theatre redevelopment project will eventually provide new professional space and affordable housing for artists in Harlem.

The takeaway

These awards emphasize that the impact of an artist is often measured by their ability to create long-term infrastructure for others. Building a sustainable network or project can provide support for thousands of artists across the globe.