Studio Museum in Harlem Finally Reopens Its Doors
The Studio Museum in Harlem, an essential cultural institution for Black art, is reopening its doors after a seven-year hiatus. Originally established in 1968, the museum has undergone extensive renovations and is now situated just blocks from its original loft space above a liquor store in Uptown Manhattan.
Significance of the Reopening
The reopening of the Studio Museum is a pivotal moment for both the museum and the community. Director Thelma Golden expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “In many ways I do feel the timing of our opening now is ideal.” She likened the current cultural climate to the one when the museum was first founded, highlighting its relevance today.
A New Purpose-Built Space
The new building provides a carefully designed environment for the museum’s 9,000-piece permanent collection and rotating exhibitions from resident artists. Golden remarked, “It was always this museum’s goal to be a home for Black art.”
Inaugural Exhibition Highlights
- Featured Artist: Tom Lloyd
- Exhibition Title: “Electronic Refractions II”
- Curator: Connie H. Choi
The inaugural exhibition honors Tom Lloyd, a light artist known for his unique installations that resonate with the local Black community in Jamaica, Queens. His first solo show took place at the museum long before his passing in 1996, making this event particularly poignant.
Innovative Art Installations
Lloyd’s works incorporate everyday materials, such as Christmas tree light bulbs and Buick backup light lenses, to engage the senses. The exhibit features refurbished pieces, replacing incandescent bulbs with modern LEDs while retaining the nostalgic sounds of the original control boxes.
Community Celebration Day
The museum will celebrate its reopening with a Community Day on November 15, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. This event will welcome visitors from surrounding neighborhoods and beyond, featuring various activities including DJ sets, art-making workshops, and games.
The grand opening is expected to attract many attendees, including members of Lloyd’s family, fostering a sense of community and appreciation for Black art and culture.
