The Studio Museum in Harlem is a distinguished American art institution dedicated to showcasing the creative output of artists of African descent. Currently, the museum’s physical galleries are temporarily closed as it prepares for a groundbreaking building project. The new structure, located at 144 West 125th Street in Harlem, Manhattan, New York City, will replace the existing one on the same site. Established in 1968, the museum’s core mission revolves around collecting, preserving, and interpreting art produced by African Americans, individuals from the African diaspora, and artists hailing from the African continent. Its multifaceted scope encompasses exhibitions, artist-in-residence programs, educational initiatives, public programming, and a substantial permanent collection.
Historical Significance: The Studio Museum in Harlem, initially housed in a rented loft at Fifth Avenue and 125th Street, has gained acclaim for its pivotal role in championing artists of African descent. One of its hallmark programs, the Artist-in-Residence program, has provided support to over a hundred emerging artists who have subsequently embarked on highly regarded careers.
Educational and Public Engagement: The museum’s commitment to education and public engagement is evident through a diverse array of offerings, including lectures, dialogues, panel discussions, and performances. It extends its reach through interpretive programs catering to students and teachers. Additionally, the museum has contributed to the expansion of art historical literature by producing scholarly catalogues, brochures, and pamphlets.
Museum History: The inception of the Studio Museum emerged from the collective vision of a diverse group of founders who believed that the African-American community should have a museum as an integral part of its daily life, reflective of its interests and culture. Originally launched in 1968 in a rented loft, the museum moved to its current location in 1982, with a steadfast focus on showcasing both emerging and established artists of African descent.
The Artist-in-Residence Program: A hallmark initiative of the museum, the Artist-in-Residence program, has played a pivotal role in nurturing art-making practices and careers. Notably, artists William T. Williams and Mel Edwards were instrumental in converting the original industrial loft space into artists’ studios, setting the stage for black artists to work and exhibit within the Harlem community. The program has been a catalyst for numerous artists and museum professionals.
Architectural Advancements: In 2001, the Studio Museum enlisted the services of architects Rogers Marvel Architects, resulting in the design of the building’s entry pavilion, exhibition spaces, auditorium, and other facilities. This addition has enhanced the museum’s capabilities and offerings.
Future Expansion: In 2015, the museum commissioned award-winning architect David Adjaye, known for his work on the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, to design a new home. This architectural endeavor aimed to accommodate the museum’s growing exhibition schedule and enhance its capacity.
Artist-in-Residence Program: The Studio Museum annually offers an 11-month studio residency for three emerging artists, whether local, national, or international, working across various media. The program grants artists a non-living studio space, along with a stipend. Participants have access to the museum’s studios and are expected to dedicate a minimum of 20 hours per week to their creative practice, including participation in open studios and public programs. The culmination of their residency is an exhibition of their work in the museum’s galleries.
Selected Former Artists in Residence: The museum’s Artist-in-Residence program has nurtured and supported numerous artists, including Kehinde Wiley, Mequitta Ahuja, Njideka Akunyili, Sadie Barnette, Kevin Beasley, Jordan Casteel, June Clark, Gregory Coates, Bethany Collins, Abigail DeVille, Lauren Halsey, Allison Janae Hamilton, EJ Hill, Jibade-Khalil Huffman, Texas Isaiah, Steffani Jemison, Lauren Kelley, Autumn Knight, Simone Leigh, Eric N. Mack, Meleko Mokgosi, Sana Musasama, Marilyn Nance, Jennifer Packer, Kamau Amu Patton, Julia Phillips, Valerie Piraino, Elliot Reed, Tanea Richardson, Andy Robert, Jacolby Satterwhite, Tschabalala Self, Paul Mpagi Sepuya, Xaviera Simmons, Sable Elyse Smith, Cullen Washington, Jr., and many others.
Permanent Collection: The Studio Museum’s permanent collection comprises approximately 2000 works encompassing drawings, pastels, prints, photographs, mixed-media pieces, and installations. It features artworks created by artists during their residencies at the museum and acquisitions that establish a historical framework for artists of African descent. The collection includes works by prominent artists such as Terry Adkins, Laylah Ali, Romare Bearden, Dawoud Bey, Skunder Boghossian, Frederick J. Brown, Stephen Burks, Elizabeth Catlett, Robert Colescott, Gregory Coates, Melvin Edwards, Kira Lynn Harris, Richard Hunt, Hector Hyppolite, Serge Jolimeau, Lois Mailou Jones, Jacob Lawrence, Norman Lewis, Wardell Milan, Philome Obin, Howardena Pindell, Betye Saar, Merton Simpson, Nari Ward, Hale Woodruff, and others. The museum also serves as the guardian of an extensive archive featuring the works of photographer James VanDerZee, renowned for chronicling the Harlem community during the 1920s, 30s, and 40s.
Recognition: In 1985, the Studio Museum received the Award of Merit from the Municipal Art Society of New York City, a testament to its exceptional collection of Black art.