Museums, Art and Tours

Located in Harlem, the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture is a renowned research library and cultural institution dedicated to the documentation and celebration of the African diaspora. Part of the New York Public Library system, the Schomburg Center houses an extensive collection of manuscripts, rare books, photographs, and artifacts. Founded by Arturo Alfonso Schomburg in 1925, this institution offers exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs that delve into the rich history and cultural contributions of African Americans.

The Studio Museum in Harlem is a leading institution dedicated to contemporary art by artists of African descent. Founded in 1968, the museum has played a pivotal role in promoting the work of black artists and fostering an appreciation for African American art. The museum features a diverse range of exhibitions, artist residencies, and public programs. Currently undergoing a major expansion, the Studio Museum continues to be a vibrant center for art and culture in Harlem.

Renowned artist Carrie Mae Weems operates a studio and gallery space in the heart of Brooklyn. Known for her powerful and thought-provoking work that explores themes of identity, race, and gender, Weems’ studio is a hub for contemporary art and cultural discourse. The space hosts exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops, offering a platform for emerging and established artists to engage with the community.

Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn is a historic site and cultural institution that preserves the history of one of America’s first free black communities. Founded in 1838, Weeksville was a thriving, self-sufficient community of African Americans. The Heritage Center includes historic houses, a garden, and exhibits that explore the lives and contributions of Weeksville’s residents. The center also offers educational programs, tours, and cultural events that celebrate African American heritage.

Essie Green Galleries, located in Harlem, specializes in African American fine art. Founded by Sherman Edmiston, the gallery features works by prominent African American artists such as Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, and Elizabeth Catlett. The gallery aims to promote and preserve the legacy of African American artists through exhibitions, art sales, and educational programs.

Calabar Gallery in Harlem focuses on contemporary African, Caribbean, and African American art. Owned by Atim Annette Oton, the gallery showcases a diverse range of works, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and mixed media. Calabar Gallery is committed to supporting emerging and mid-career artists and provides a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange through its exhibitions and events.

Harlem Heritage Tours offers an authentic and immersive way to experience the rich history and culture of Harlem. Founded by Neal Shoemaker, the tour company provides guided walking tours, bus tours, and multimedia experiences that highlight Harlem’s significant landmarks, historic sites, and cultural institutions. Tours cover a range of themes, including the Harlem Renaissance, civil rights history, and contemporary Harlem culture, offering visitors a deep and engaging understanding of the neighborhood.

Black Gotham Experience, founded by artist and historian Kamau Ware, offers walking tours and multimedia experiences that explore the hidden history of African Americans in Lower Manhattan. The tours delve into the lives and contributions of black New Yorkers from the colonial period to the present day, providing a nuanced and compelling narrative of the city’s history. Black Gotham Experience also features art installations, events, and educational programs that connect the past with contemporary culture.