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Call it the Harlem cultural resurgence. On New York City's 125th Street, where a statue of civil rights leader Adam Clayton Powell Jr marches forward, the area is buzzing with bustle and buzz.

A Community in Renewal

The famous Apollo Theatre is in the middle of major renovations. Another cultural institution is preparing to move into an $80 million arts complex spanning a entire block. Additionally, another organization recently opened a $250 million facility containing its headquarters, low-income residences and retail space.

“This structure declares to the world: Harlem is important; Black art matters; Black institutions matter,” stated the chairman of the board of trustees. “It will serve as a lighthouse on this historic street, a space where art and people converge.”

Historical Roots

This institution was founded by creators, advocates, philanthropists and community members to confront the systemic exclusion of African American artists from established museums. It opened in a leased space over an off-licence in 1968, a turbulent year of assassinations, protests 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 time of change. The country was divided. Citizens were protesting. Artists were demanding to be recognized.”

Architectural Vision

The recently completed $160 million structure covers 82,000 sq ft across seven floors. Designed by architectural firms, the building constitutes the first custom-designed home for the institution and nearly doubles its exhibition and programme space.

The building includes exhibition spaces, an expansive lobby, adaptable event areas, a specialized learning studio, a coffee shop and retail store, plus a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views. An impressive staircase, clad in terrazzo, fills the main atrium space.

Notable Artworks

The inaugural programming reflects the institution's history and aspirations with four major exhibitions. One exhibition features the first institutional career survey of innovative creator an electronic art pioneer, whose electronic light sculptures appeared in the museum's inaugural 1968 exhibition.

• An artist's late 1960s musical tribute pays respect to John Coltrane
• Kerry James Marshall's iconic work confronts lack of representation and African American portrayal
• Jean-Michel Basquiat's Bayou features vigorous marks and fragments of collage
• The celebrated artist's initial narrative textile captures her neighborhood in both joyful and mournful tones

Cultural Significance

The institution's opening feels particularly significant during a time when diversity initiatives, cultural institutions and the way African American history is presented face growing challenges. New York has just chosen a leader who embodies the city's cultural diversity, and this neighborhood has a special ability for making renaissance resemble resistance.

“Harlem has always been evolving,” observed a senior leader. “It's a district that has been changing since it was founded. But Harlem has also been a neighbourhood where African American culture has flourished.”

This institution honors its influential residency program with an former residents exhibition including prominent figures such as contemporary portraitist, Mickalene Thomas and Titus Kaphar. The exhibition mixes new commissions with historical pieces spanning multiple decades.

Continuing Mission

Among recent acquisitions are sound-based works and sculptural pieces. Seven bronze time capsules created by sculptor Houston Conwill contain private statements by prominent African American figures, originally interred in the institution's outdoor space in the mid-1980s and now on display with plans to be opened in the year 2034.

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