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Call 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 atmosphere is filled with energy and excitement.

A Community in Renewal

The famous Apollo Theater is in the middle of significant upgrades. The National Black Theatre is preparing to move into an $80M arts complex spanning a city block. Additionally, the National Urban League recently opened a $250M facility containing its main offices, affordable housing and retail space.

“This building says to the world: Harlem is important; Black art matters; Black institutions matter,” remarked the leader of the governing board. “It will stand as a beacon on this historic street, a space where art and people converge.”

Historical Foundation

This institution was established by creators, activists, philanthropists and local residents to address the widespread omission of African American artists from established museums. Its debut in a rented loft above an liquor store in the late 1960s, a traumatic year of assassinations, uprisings and societal transformation.

“This moment feels what it must have felt like when it all started,” reflected a institutional representative. “The museum was born in a world of flux. The country was divided. Citizens were protesting. Creators were insisting to be recognized.”

Architectural Vision

The new $160M structure covers 82,000 sq ft across seven levels. Designed by architectural firms, the building represents the first custom-designed space for the institution and almost doubles its exhibition and programme space.

The facility includes galleries, an expansive lobby, adaptable event areas, a dedicated education workshop, a cafe and retail store, plus a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. A monumental stair, finished with terrazzo, fills the central vertical gallery.

Collection Highlights

The opening programming reflects the museum's past, present and future with several key shows. A particular display features the first institutional career survey of pioneering artist an electronic art pioneer, whose electronic light sculptures appeared in the museum's inaugural 1968 exhibition.

• William T Williams's 1969 abstract Trane pays homage to John Coltrane
• Kerry James Marshall's iconic work confronts invisibility and Black representation
• The renowned artist's Bayou features vigorous marks 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 particularly significant during a time when diversity initiatives, museums and the way African American history is presented face growing challenges. New York has just chosen a leader who embodies the metropolis's multicultural character, and Harlem has a particular talent for making renaissance resemble defiance.

“This community has constantly transformed,” observed a longtime director. “It's a district that has been evolving since it was established. But Harlem has also been a neighbourhood where Black culture has thrived.”

The museum celebrates its significant residency program with an alumni show including prominent figures such as Kehinde Wiley, Mickalene Thomas and Titus Kaphar. The exhibition mixes new commissions with older artworks spanning various periods.

Future Legacy

Including new commissions 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 interred in the museum's sculpture garden in the mid-1980s and now on display with plans to be opened in the year 2034.

Guests can explore an historical display of images and ephemera documenting the museum's history through its exhibitions, events and programmes over almost sixty years. This rich history includes memorable moments ranging from royal visits to local presentations that collectively illustrate the institution's enduring impact.