By Elizabeth McMillan
The Studio Museum in Harlem has devoted over 30 years to bringing gifted emerging artists of African descent the resources and the recognition they deserve. Opened in 1968 as a studio and exhibition space on 125th street in New York City, the Museum has since evolved into an active and vital artistic institution offering a variety of valuable services to the community.
The Museum has built an impressive permanent collection of more than 1,600 objects spanning all types of media by such artists as Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Jacob Lawrence, and Faith Ringgold. And in celebration of their 30th anniversary, exhibiting through October 3, 1999 is Selected Works from the Permanent Collection showcasing the Museum’s impressive 20th century art collection and From the Studio: Artists-In-Residence, 1998-1999 featuring three installations by each of this year’s program artists.
SMH has also played a significant role in the art community by serving as the primary training ground for African-American museum professionals and artists. But it’s their education and public programming that’s an essential component to their mission. The Cooperative School Program places professional artists in Harlem schools to serve as instructors, the Enhanced Access Program provides free and expanded hours to thousands of school children and economically disadvantaged families and the Vital Expressions in American Art series hosts a variety of family-oriented activities. Designed to coincide with each exhibit, these programs help to enhance the exploration of broader cultural and social themes.
Whether you’re viewing the art or participating in their rich activities, The Studio Museum in Harlem gives everyone an opportunity to appreciate the culture that artists of African descent have brought to the world. For more information, visit the museum’s website at www.studiomuseuminharlem.org. M
August 1999
