Moet-Hennessy Seeks 'Next Black Master'

Hoping to develop a better relationship with Moet Hennessy's consumer base, according to an in-house publicist, the canned-heat purveyor decided to create what they've dubbed the "Next Black Master Art Competition." A contest among 10 African American artists-all of whom entered works that interpret the Hennessy tagline "Flaunt Your Taste"- the five-city competition will come to a boozy end in New York City on Thursday, October 23. Hennessy promises revelers a good time at the Puck Building, pointing to the evening's featured component: the crowning of the "Next Black Master."

From today's release:

Over $15,000 in prizes will be awarded to the finalists, including a trip to Cognac, France for the winner.

The Black Masters Series kicked off in Washington, D.C. May 2007 with close to 800 affluent professionals registering to attend the event. The tour also made stops in Chicago, Miami and LA, where attendees learned about the history of black artistry and gained insight on how to collect and invest in art while experiencing some of the most exquisite cognacs Hennessy has to offer.

The 2007 inaugural series was designed to acquaint a broad audience with the history, contributions, struggles, and influence of African American masters. While the style of these artists is influenced by their unique experiences as African Americans, their art expresses themes that are universal.