The standing tables and central bar kept that clean white look, with candles set sparingly. Stark metal kitchen carts displayed the food offerings, provided by Ridgewells, including cheese platters, petite mousses (lemon blueberry trifle), brownie and truffle lollipops, and chocolate-dipped pralines. Passed hors d'oeuvres abounded, too, such as the mini red potatoes filled with sour cream and caviar.

Considering the show's topic, entertainment was key. Radio One, which collaborated with the museum on the exhibition, brought on radio host Russ Parr as the M.C. and DJ Sixth Sense, who set up in front of a purple circular light show that complemented the event's overall blue glow.

The exhibit features portraits of hip-hop stars such as LL Cool J, Ice T, and Erykah Badu, who were not in attendance, likely because the Grammys were just two days away.   —Danielle O'Steen