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Consider it the Harlem cultural resurgence. On New York City's 125th Street, where a statue of Adam Clayton Powell Jr marches onwards and upwards, the area is filled with bustle and buzz.

A Community in Renewal

The renowned Apollo Theatre is in the middle of major renovations. The National Black Theatre is set to relocate into an $80 million cultural center covering a entire block. Meanwhile, the National Urban League recently opened a $250 million building containing its main offices, affordable housing and retail space.

“This building says to the world: Harlem matters; Black art matters; Black institutions are crucial,” remarked the leader of the governing board. “It will serve as a lighthouse on 125th Street, a place where creativity and community meet.”

Historical Foundation

The Studio Museum was established by artists, advocates, donors and community members to confront the widespread omission of African American artists from established museums. It opened in a rented loft over an liquor store in 1968, a turbulent year of political murders, protests and social change.

“This moment feels what it must have been like when it all started,” reflected a institutional representative. “The institution emerged in a world of flux. The country was divided. People were marching. Artists were demanding to be recognized.”

Building Design

The new $160 million structure spans 82,000 square feet across seven floors. Designed by architectural firms, the building represents the first purpose-built space for the museum and almost doubles its exhibition and programme space.

The building includes exhibition spaces, an large entrance hall, flexible programme spaces, a specialized learning studio, a coffee shop and shop, plus a open-air deck with sweeping urban vistas. An impressive staircase, clad in terrazzo, occupies the central vertical gallery.

Collection Highlights

The inaugural programming reflects the institution's history and aspirations with several key shows. A particular display features the first institutional career survey of pioneering artist Tom Lloyd, whose electronic light sculptures appeared in the museum's inaugural 1968 exhibition.

• William T Williams's late 1960s Trane pays respect to jazz legend
• Kerry James Marshall's Silence Is Golden addresses invisibility and African American portrayal
• The renowned artist's Bayou features bold strokes and mixed media elements
• The celebrated artist's first story quilt captures her community in both joyful and mournful tones

Broader Impact

The institution's opening feels especially meaningful during a time when inclusion programs, museums and the way African American history is told face increased scrutiny. The city has just chosen a mayor who embodies the city's cultural diversity, and Harlem has a particular talent for making cultural revival resemble resistance.

“This community has constantly transformed,” observed a longtime director. “It's a district that has been changing since it was established. But this area has also been a community where Black culture has flourished.”

This institution celebrates its significant residency program with an former residents exhibition including prominent figures such as Kehinde Wiley, Mickalene Thomas and Titus Kaphar. The display mixes new commissions with historical pieces spanning various periods.

Continuing Mission

Among recent acquisitions are sonic installations and three-dimensional artworks. Seven bronze time capsules created by sculptor Houston Conwill contain private statements by prominent African American figures, originally buried in the museum's sculpture garden in 1984 and now on display with plans to be opened in the year 2034.

Visitors can explore an archival presentation of images and memorabilia documenting the institution's journey through its shows, programs and activities over nearly six decades. This rich history includes memorable moments ranging from dignitary appearances to local presentations that together demonstrate the museum's lasting influence.