During black history month, we want to shine a spotlight on organizations who have told the stories and history of the African Americans who laid the foundations for our culture in this country.
The mission at Puzzles of Color has always been to present diversity in the jigsaw puzzle space and introduce artists of color to the homes of puzzle doers around the world. Through art, museums have done the same. By preserving, and educating the public on the art and artifacts of our history, these museums are striving for historical and current understanding and a positive path to the future.
1. Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History - @thewrightmuseum
Discover Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, Michigan, founded in 1965. The museum's exhibits teach the history and culture of African Americans in Detroit through artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of the African American experience in the Midwest. One exhibit that you will find during your visit is Stories in Stained Glass by Samuel A. Hodge. This colorful collection gives a voice to the collective efforts of Freedom Advocates, and creatives throughout the exhibit. A must-see on your next visit to the Motor City.
2. Southside Community Art Center - @southsidecommunityartcenter
The Southside Community Art Center (SSCAC) is an art center located in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. The center focuses on exhibitions, programs, and events that "promote the legacy and future of African American art and artists while educating the community on the value of art and culture." Check out their current exhibition, The Promised Land. The work of eleven artists are featured chronicling the migrations to Chicago by southern blacks. The SSCAC is celebrating 80 years of legacy building and community impact in the Chicago area.
3. Roots 101 AAM - @roots101aam
Lamont Collins founded the Roots 101 African American Museum in 2019 in Louisville, Kentucky. In its short time, the institution has received some notable awards by Architectural Digest, USA Today, and the Ford Foundation. Evident by the name, Roots 101 is dedicated to the education of black history and setting foundations for generations of the future through exhibits, events, and immersive experiences. Big Momma's House is an exhibition that honors the matriarch in a lot of African American families and how we learn our history through pictures.
4. African American Museum in Philadelphia - @aampmuseum
The AAMP was founded in 1976 and was the first institution built by a major U.S. city to exhibit and educate the culture of Black Americans. Visitors and members can take advantage of a variety of educational programs, workshops, and lectures that are designed to promote understanding and appreciation of African American history and culture. Anyone can experience their online exhibits right now. Virtually visit Anna Russell Jones: The Art of Design, Rendering Justice, and
Through His Eyes: Youth Activism in The Civil Rights Era In Philadelphia. On your next trip to Philly, be sure to add the AAMP's next event on your itinerary.
5. Hammond's House Museum - @hammondshouse
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the collection is strong in the art of the African Diaspora. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions of the work of local, national and international artists. The museum plays an important role in the cultural life of Atlanta and the surrounding region, telling stories of the African American experience through the arts. Stop by to visit their current exhibit, Tokie Rome-Taylor Insight: Body As Artifact, Archive and Memory. (Feb. 3-Apr. 23, 2023)
6. Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture - @nmaahc
You've most likely heard of this museum. One of the most well-known museums of black history is the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) in Washington, D.C. The museum's exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that unfold the African American experience from slavery to the present day. Be sure to plan a full day (or two) to have time to explore the museum's 105,000 square feet of exhibition space.
7. Museum of Contemporary African Diaspora and Arts (MoCADA) - @mocada_museum
In the heart of Brooklyn, New York, you can find the Museum of Contemporary African Diaspora and Arts (MoCADA). The museum was founded in 1999 by Lauria Angela Cumbo. Through exhibitions, education, and community, the MoCADA offers a unique twist on experiencing a museum. Check out their programs including youth art classes, artist workshops, and lectures on African Diaspora art and culture.
What's your favorite African American Museum? There are many, many more museums that exhibit and educate on African American history in the US. Check your local city directory for your nearest museum and plan your visit this month in celebration of Black History Month.
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1 comment
Excellent information!!!!