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Call it the second Harlem renaissance. On New York City's 125th St, where a sculpture of Adam Clayton Powell Jr stride onwards and upwards, the area is buzzing with energy and excitement.

A Community in Transformation

The famous Apollo Theatre is in the middle of significant upgrades. Another cultural institution is preparing to move into an $80 million cultural center spanning a city block. Additionally, another organization recently opened a $250M building containing its headquarters, affordable housing and retail space.

“This building says to the world: Harlem is important; Black art is significant; Black institutions matter,” remarked the chairman of the governing board. “It will stand as a lighthouse on 125th Street, a place where creativity and community meet.”

Historical Foundation

This institution was founded by creators, advocates, donors and community members to address the widespread omission of African American artists from established museums. Its debut in a leased space above an off-licence in the late 1960s, a turbulent year of assassinations, uprisings and societal transformation.

“This occasion resembles what it must have been like when it all started,” noted a institutional representative. “The museum was born in a world of flux. Nation was split. Citizens were protesting. Artists were demanding to be seen and heard.”

Architectural Vision

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

The facility features exhibition spaces, an expansive lobby, adaptable event areas, a dedicated education workshop, a cafe and retail store, plus a open-air deck with panoramic city views. A monumental stair, finished with terrazzo, occupies the main atrium space.

Collection Highlights

The opening exhibition schedule reflects the museum's past, present and future with several key shows. One exhibition features the first institutional career survey of innovative creator an electronic art pioneer, whose electronic light sculptures appeared in the institution's first show.

• An artist's late 1960s musical tribute pays respect to John Coltrane
• Another prominent artist's iconic work addresses lack of representation and Black representation
• The renowned artist's Bayou features vigorous marks and mixed media elements
• Faith Ringgold's initial narrative textile captures her community in both celebratory and elegiac tones

Cultural Significance

The institution's opening feels particularly significant during a period when inclusion programs, museums and the way Black history is told face increased scrutiny. The city has recently elected a leader who personifies the city's cultural diversity, and Harlem has a particular talent for making renaissance resemble resistance.

“This community has constantly transformed,” observed a senior leader. “This is a neighbourhood that has been changing since it was founded. But Harlem has also been a neighbourhood where African American culture has thrived.”

The museum honors its influential artist-in-residence programme with an alumni show including prominent figures such as Kehinde Wiley, mixed-media artist and Titus Kaphar. The exhibition mixes new commissions with older artworks spanning various periods.

Continuing Mission

Among recent acquisitions are sonic installations and three-dimensional artworks. Metal containers created by artist Houston Conwill contain confidential testaments by prominent African American figures, originally buried in the museum's sculpture garden in 1984 and now on display with plans to be unveiled in the year 2034.

Visitors can explore an historical display of photographs and memorabilia documenting the institution's journey through its shows, events and programmes over nearly six decades. This rich history includes memorable moments ranging from royal visits to community performances that collectively demonstrate the museum's lasting influence.