I decided to come out my winter shell and environment and explore another part of the city. I chose the renovated STUDIO MUSEUM IN HARLEM. A breezy sunny Saturday afternoon welcomed me. While writing this review, I am enjoying my fav beverage, black tea, in its cafe located on the lower level. I am a writer of prose and fiction. The artwork I saw today inspired me to write differently and better. Check out the photos to help you visit the museum with me. As I heard one passerby say 'This was fun.' read more

Studio Museum Harlem - A lovely cup of black English Breakfast - Art Museums Near Me - New York, New York

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visited the Studio Museum in Harlem, and wow -- what a statement it makes. After being closed for six years for renovations, the museum has reopened in a stunning new building that is bold, modern, and absolutely beautiful. The space itself feels like art. With six floors of galleries, we happily worked our way down, taking in incredible paintings, sculptures, and powerful works from so many talented artists -- including inspiring artists-in-residence. The collection feels vibrant and meaningful, and the layout allows you to really slow down and experience each floor. There's also a lovely gift shop and café area where you can grab a coffee and pastry and relax for a bit. It's easily accessible by subway, the staff is warm and incredibly helpful, and the entire experience feels fresh and exciting. Check it out -- you won't be sorry. read more

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Studio Museum has been on my New York list for almost six years because that's how long it's been shut down (not only for COVID, but the construction of their new building). They just opened up the last couple months and their space is now large, open, and visually appealing. There are six floors and the best way to start, in my opinion, is to take the elevator to the top and work your way down. The top floor is dedicated to the history of the museum and their presence/work in the community. The museum offers a large variety of work by Black artists, including my favorite section, the pieces done by their artists in residence. Pieces by well known artists and lesser known artists. Paintings, mixed media, and sculptures. A lot of pieces, of course, focus on equity and social justice as well as the Black experience. Harlem is also prominent featured, especially in the photograph sections. I also love how the museum is set up like a true community space now, with the large steps for everyone to sit on. I am a member, so at the cost of 90 dollars annually, I have unlimited visits (including special members only hours) and access to programming. The cost of entry is very reasonable. They also have days they stay open until 9 PM. The staff were very helpful and kind. read more

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This is a relatively small museum which allows you to do the full museum in a couple hours. The employees were friendly and knowledgeable. There were bathrooms on every floor which was such a relief for me after days of touring and often in places without bathrooms. The art is all modern (1960s-present) and well curated. Many of the pieces had useful descriptions. A wonderful display to the history and strength of Black art. read more

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Studio Museum of Harlem is on 125th St. blocks away from various train stations - A,B,C,D,2,3 & is close to Apollo Theater, numerous shops, hang-out spots, eateries, etc. Studio Museum of Harlem's "Grand Reopening Event" was held on 11/15/25. Upon arrival to the museum, it was easy to show my online pre-ordered ticket, get a commemorative celebratory "Community Day" Bracelet & walk inside. Showcasing Studio Museum of Harlem's newly & beautifully renovated art space, there are multiple Floors of mixed-media / mixed-style art. After awaiting this renovation after so many years, I am excited to revisit & once again enjoy this museum. Current exhibits Include the following: From the Studio: Fifty-Eight Years of Artists In Residence - on view until 2/15/26. Tom Lloyd - until 3/22/26. From Now: On Collection In Context - until 8/16/26. "Christopher Myers: Harlem is a Myth" & "Camobile Norment: Untitled (Heliotrope)" were both on view the day of the Grand Reopening. There was also a Sound Bath Event, a reception area where attendees could enjoy light-bites & light beverages, etc. There are also art installations for visitors to enjoy that will be on long-term view at Studio Museum of Harlem. studiomuseum.org @studiomuseum One can go onto the website to book museum tickets, learn about upcoming special events including Gallery Talks, Drop-In Artmaking: Making Memories (Education Workshop) on 12/7/25, Kids & Family Reading / Storytime Events, etc. read more

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Yes!!!!! The Studio Museum in Harlem has just reopened in its beautiful new building and it's fantastic - absolutely worth a visit! An artistic nexus for African American artists and the community since its launch in the late '60s, The Studio Museum continues it mission to both exhibit and incubate works of all media to elevate incredible voices and talents. And, if you find yourself strapped for cash but want to check it out, then head over on Studio Sundays from 11-6, when it's free! Can't beat that! What's there to see beyond the downtown view from the top floor and the big picture windows facing 125th St? A lot! (See all my pics!) Recommend you follow what I was directed to, start with the 6th floor and work your way down! The present main exhibit "To Be a Place" walks you through all the love and effort that went to create the first Studio Museum location in 1968 and leads you to what it has now become. Note two works on this level of former Artist in Residence David Hammond, the 1997 "African American Flag" and 2019 untitled boulder etched with "Black Lives Matter." Inspired by migration, Camille Norment's commissioned 2025 sculptural and sound installation lines the down stairs. On other floors, the museum's superb permanent collection, grouped on themes, and selection of outstanding works from their historic Artist in Residence program are powerful, poignant, and thought provoking. On many occasion, the adjacent descriptions added for me worthwhile deeper layers of meaning beyond what could be a first impression. So many pieces are easy to connect with. If you're a fan of electric light artists like Dan Flavin, there's also a room with the '60s innovative works from Tom Lloyd, whose pieces demonstrated Lloyd's synthesis of technical mastery and artistry. Found especially fascinating the unearthed 1984 "The Joyful Mysteries" time capsules with testaments, buried at their earlier location, which will be opened and read in September 2034. The Studio Museum has an Education Workshop space, presently displaying Christopher Myers's 2025 "Harlem is a Myth" inspirational pieces, where they hold regular sessions for those to create their own art. At the lower level, you'll find the museum's café with tables and a staircase wall up to street level to both sit, chat and reflect. Kudos, Studio Museum!!! So glad you're here! Look forward to my future visits and recommend you check it out! read more

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Such a beautiful space. The museum is spread over 6 floors and the layout is stunning. After taking a recommendation from the person scanning our ticket we started on the 6th floor and worked our way down. The tip floor had a good exhibit about the history of the museum which was nice to see. There were various mediums of art and it was nice to see that Harlem was featured throughout the museum. Unfortunately the sculpture garden and terraces were closed for the season so I'll have to go back and check those out. read more

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A celebration of black history, present, and future, informative and creative art, which is just as beautiful as a building itself the golds, the grays & the Browns is a peak of elegance. The space allows for individuality as well as being collective in the art community. read more

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Amazing architecture, that transcends the architect we won't mention, with thoughtfulness in accessibility (of all kinds)! Visiting the newly reopened Studio Museum was worth the years-long wait, and going a few weeks after opening was a delight, as it was the first NYC museum I'd ever been to with only New Yorkers and seemingly few tourists, which imbued a sense of community and shared awe. Every room has a treasure, whether the art or the views, and it's impressive to see a collection of this magnitude and significance in NYC. Hanging out on the Stoop is also free (no admission required) and I challenge you to find me a better people-watching, catching-up spot elsewhere in Manhattan! read more

Beautiful new space right on 125th. Lots of new works and some classics. Free on Sunday with stuff for kids young and old. Definitely recommend. read more

Studio Museum Harlem - Melvin Van Peeples. - Art Museums Near Me - New York, New York

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March 2016... the space is great. Place nice and also clean. Workers present that day were very nice . guy at desk took time to talk with us about some history and also about the artists.. suggested price except Sundays (free) is $7 but u can give whatever you have. I'm not really artsy so maybe i don't understand some of the pieces!? Maybe i was supposed to think deeper but I was 2 tired to think. I hear the art changes so everytime u go maybe something different. This is a pure review from my drafts folder written after that visit (not sure how Ive never checked that folder:( . I had to give them their props no matter how long ago!! Update 2022 I see they're listed temporarily closed I wonder if Covid affects.. Anyway I wish them well read more

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I remember seeing one of the first major exhibitions of Chakaia Booker's rubber tire pieces here years ago. At the time, I don't know where else in the city I would have seen such a display. Now, her work appears in the collections of major art museums African-American artists are still woefully under-represented at leading art museums in the United States although it seems more museums are making an effort. Fortunately, the Studio Museum continues to showcase work by new and important artists of color. I used to visit here regularly when I lived in NYC and wish I could stop in more often now because there is always at least one artist whose work on display is something new for me. While that was certainly true on this time, I was glad to again see Elizabeth Catlett-Mora's 'Mother and Child, a life-sized mahogany figure. It's one of my favorite sculptures and it was like encountering an old friend. read more

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This museum had been on my place to visit list forever. I finally went with some friends on Uptown Friday's and was in for great surprise. We paid $7 for admission and saw some cool exhibits. The museum itself was small but spacious enough for you not be too cramped with other visitors. The staff were cool and friendly. After checking out the exhibits, we mingled in their spacious courtyard and jammed to some African-Neo Soul music that started off with just a few people. Within the hour the courtyard was packed and people were jamming and enjoying themselves. The crowd was diverse and mature and I really enjoyed the eclectic vibe of the event. After another hour or so we could hardly dance without being bumped into someone else. This is definitely an event to check out during the summer, this museum truly represents the new Harlem. read more

Really, this place is more like a large gallery than a museum. There's one big room on the main floor, an alcove, a balcony, and two rooms downstairs. Right now, the main exhibit is on Romare Bearden and his influence. In general, this museum has much hero-worship of Romare Bearden going on. Which makes sense, since Bearden was arguably the most famous artist associated with the Harlem Renaissance. There's also an alcove featuring a video installation, and a few works by new, local artists. Downstairs is a chalk-on-chalkboard installation picturing an urban city block (and, umm, they should have sprayed it with fixative so visitors couldn't smudge it all over the place), and a small curated exhibition focusing on expressing identity through fashion. Definitely worth a visit, but not blow-you-away amazing. Free admission on Sundays. read more

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Nice little Museum. 1) They are free Sunday's. I will not recommend coming here if you have to pay the full price. However, the free Sunday's is awesome. 2) It is a small museum, I was finished with the entire thing within hour. 3) Overall, the exhibits are great. I found it to be unique and wonderful. read more

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Wonderful art gem in the middle of Harlem. Happened to stroll by here this Sunday morning while checking out the street vendors, and saw it was free on Sundays so I decided to take a look. As most others have pointed out it really is an Art gallery more than a museum and not something you would spend more than an hour in really, but what they have is some really fantastic work. Definitely pieces you wouldn't get to enjoy elsewhere. If ever you find yourself in Harlem on a Sunday with some time to spare do yourself the favor of making a stop here. read more

Studio Museum Harlem - View from the upper gallery - Art Museums Near Me - New York, New York

I've been to more than a dozen membership institutions of IDNYC, and this was the first one that did not offer free admission to someone who signed up for membership until after the paperwork is processed. The exhibits themselves are quite lovely. There seems to be an emphasis on contrasting colors and magical realism that makes you look twice at the everyday things. read more

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Interesting art museum in the middle of the Harlem neighborhood. It's relatively small, but large enough so you can enjoy all the various paintings and sculptures by African-American artists. Front desk staff are pretty friendly and helpful. It's $7.00 for admission, which isn't too bad! read more

Pretty interesting! An array of different types of artwork and exhibits. A couple of video installations as well. I think it's probably not worth it unless you come on a free Sunday. You could spend perhaps about 45 minutes here. read more

So this added to my disappointment with my Harlem visit, and maybe disappointment isn't the right word...maybe let down is.... We went to this museum because we read about how it had a photo collection from the famous Harlem Renaissance and I have always been interested in the history behind Harlem so we paid the student price (a whopping $4 ha ha) and got ourselves prepared for a trip back in history to one of the most historic parts of NYC. You could tell just walking through the city streets on the way here how affluent and up and coming Harlem used to be, with nice wide avenues, beautiful brick houses.... So we went around the museum and there was a small collection of modern art from local artists and artists in Africa which was interesting to see. Then we thought we got to the end of the museum but hadn't seen one piece of artwork or photo from the harlem renaissance so we decided to ask one of the curators.... Our conversation: Me: "Excuse me, does this museum still have the photos from the harlem renaissance?" Curator: "Yes" Me: "Well....where is it?" Curator: "It is in our permanent collection." Me: "Oh okay great! Where is that so we can go see it?" Curator: "It is in storage." Me: "Ummm...your permanent collection on harlem history is in storage?" Curator: "Yes" Then we left...enough said I think read more

This is one of New York's great neighborhood museums, and it's been on a roll lately with a series of adventurous group shows detailing the far-out regions of black artistic imagination. There was one about Afrofuturism, science fictions, utopia/dystopia in the winter, and on my last visit I saw "When Stars Begin To Fall," about folk and vernacular art and how the visual language of that has influenced "professional" artists. i want to put the last part in quotes because the exhibition as a whole makes you wonder what that even means, especially when the unprofessional work, in many cases, looks better. There's just a freshness or spontaneity or freedom about it that lots of artists have a hard time preserving when they go through the system of schools and galleries and adapt their vision to conventions of mediums and art histories--things that folk artists never have to think about, unless of course they want to--though of course the best artists always manage to do that, and some of them are represented here. I won't detail everything I saw, but one particularly memorable installation was by Jacolby Satterwhite, who framed and hung drawings by his mother (an "outsider artist" of sorts) of strange variations on familiar household objects, over a wallpaper he made of 3D digital renderings of those objects, alive in a raucuously colorful montage landscape that he imagined around them. It felt like the heart of the whole exhibition, a place where the relationship between folk arts and the world of museums was an intimate, familial one of loving kin. I'd like to give the Studio Museum five stars but the architecture of the galleries is not that great. The central gallery has a plopped-down feeling that makes work installed there feel random, and it's wreathed by a balcony of uneven width. The narrow corridor on the balcony's east side is always used for small shows unrelated to what's going on around it, and the shape of it (one long wall) poses a real challenge for anyone who wants to develop a story in art that's more complex and compelling than a this-then-that, one-after-another sequence. The balcony also casts shadows, or maybe it's just the yellowness of the lights they use that make everything feel dimmed. Anyway, I realize these are not simple problems to solve, and despite them I will keep coming back to the Studio Museums and doing my best to enjoy the great exhibitions here. read more

Studio Museum Harlem - A piece I liked at "when the stars begin to fall" - Art Museums Near Me - New York, New York

Price: Free Highlight: First Fridays; The Staff Hellooo First Fridays!!!! I have never noticed this museum before although they are smack dab in the middle of 125th street accessible by almost every train. First Friday happens once a month from 6-9pm and patrons get to browse the museum's collection, collect an $8 drink or few in the lobby and then enter the courtyard to mingle and dance. It is an open minded space and everyone dances, as in everyone, skill level in dance is irrelevant and everyone is sad when the music shuts off promptly at 9. The staff was wonderful. read more

Everyone should come here if they're ever in the Harlem/Uptown area. Even if you're not in the area, you should make it a point to visit this museum. Everything about this museum is welcoming - the architecture, the staff. The admission price posted @ the door is $7 dollars for adults, but the concierge explained to us that it's a SUGGESTED $7 donation for adults and a SUGGESTED donation of $3 for seniors & adults. Also, every first Saturday of the month is FREE admission. The winter installation ended on 3/18/07. This installation, Africa Comics, featured hand-drawn comic strips from all over the African continent. I lucked out & came to the museum on the last day of this installation. Although the museum will be closed for the next three weeks, the Studio Museum will re-open w/ a new & exciting exhibit PHILOSOPHY OF TIME TRAVEL - What would happen if an inanimate object of the past could exist in the future? This installation will have an opening ceremony on 4/11/07 filled w/ music, drinks and food...according to the very friendly museum rep. :D read more

I was desperately trying to shake off a crappy mood from my horrible breakfast at Amy Ruth's. A brisk walk around the corner and down the street to "Target Free Sundays" at the Studio Museum was the cure! I'm such a supporter of this institution that I was willing to pay even though it was free on Sunday, courtesy of Le Target. Studio Museum is small, but definitely historically significant. I try very hard not to miss a trip there when I'm in NYC. Thelma Golden and staff have done an incredible job with everything from fundraising to innovative and meaningful exhibits. I *loved* the Romare Bearden tribute exhibit (commemorating the artist's 100th birthday) and also getting to see some his original pieces. Cool bonus: Finding a piece in the tribute exhibit from my high school classmate Simone Leigh -- Kenwood Academy, represent! I had a seat in the lobby before heading out and noticed a stream of people heading to a downstairs area -- they were there for a quilting class! Apparently Studio Museum offers all kinds of classes like this that engage not only people in the neighborhood but around the city--gotta love it. Again, kudos to Studio Museum for keeping up the great work of preserving the work of African-American art, artists and culture, and providing an outlet for others to experience it. Ashe! read more

Ok I really really really LOVE it here! It is more like a gallery, but I'm assuming the "studio" in the name serves to imply the smaller than "massive museum" size. Anywho, the art selection is thought provoking and infectious enough to make you want to return to view it twice. The staff is definitely friendly and nice, just DO NOT let your grubby children run wild, they will "check you boo" OK, not in that manner, but very curt and professionally. I hope everyone that visits NYC stops in and checks out Studio Museum Harlem. **Oh, and lastly I totally had a celebrity spotting--I saw Ms. Thelma Golden!!! *big grin read more

I went specifically to see the Gordon Park exhibition but was surprised by all of the other amazing exhibitions they have currently on display. This is not your typical stuffy museum where the art work is just there for you to stare and admire, the displays here are truly thought provoking and focus on subjects that many other places take for granted. They also had an interactive workshop taking place today and I was able to make a collage which I'm planning on hanging on my fridge. The best thing about this place is that it's free every Sunday! read more

I quite enjoyed the visit to Studio Museum Harlem. It's a deceptively large gallery space with numerous levels, but not so large it becomes overwhelming. I particularly liked the afrofuturist exhibition that was on when we visited. Entry is extremely affordable, and the gallery staff were probably the friendliest and most helpful I came across in New York. There's a gift shop that looked to have a good range of products, but I avoided the temptation to go in (and spend all my money). read more

Nice place in the gentrification side of Harlem. Lots of stuff to do and see inside, modern feel to this museum.

I'm really not an art museum person so I don't know if I didn't appreciate half the collection or if it really just over my head. However, it was free on Sunday and they had a special art project. You could make your own button. I really enjoyed the project and I made only one button at first. Once I entered the collection and realized that I didn't really like it I went back and made several buttons. They provided all the materials and all I had to do was find some creative juices and get to work. read more

Great little museum in the heart of Harlem. I had been wanting to visit for some time and I'm happy I finally made it there. Great gift shop and helpful museum attendants. Not much traffic, so at times, I felt like I had the whole museum to myself. read more

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The Studio Museum in Harlem is a great addition to the historical background of 125th street, and is a strong addition to New York City museums in general. The museum has been showing amazing exhibitions, and it well know for their Artist-in-Residence program, giving artists studio place to work in (which springs from the museum's name). Recently they have been showcasing works from their permanent collection, along with exhibitions curated by the staff. The museum also published Studio Magazine, a print version of what's going at the museum as well as news and exhibits around the world. The museum isn't large, but it has quality and character, and demands a visit. Check out their website for upcoming programs and events! read more

Studio Museum Harlem - Art Museums Near Me - New York, New York

It is a very nice space and the suggested donation is relatively inexpensive ($7) compared to other museums. It is doesn't have many exhibits, but the ones they did have were okay. It has great potential, it just needs to build up a bit more. I'd like to go back in a few years to see how it has progressed. In short, if you are a local and have the time, come through on a lazy afternoon. Otherwise, I'd recommend hitting up the other museums if you are crunched for time or if museums aren't really your thing. read more

Fabulous. It is always free on a Sunday. It is quite small. There is small upper level with a larger lower level. There is a courtyard that I've never been to. The gift shop is adorable with exciting knick backs and books. It's a gray place to grab something to decorate your apartment like a coffee table book. Rock out. Go with the art lovers in your life. read more

Conveniently located in the "heart" of Harlem, the studio museum is great to wander through after having a hearty "gospel" brunch. It is FREE on Sundays! The museum holds an interesting collection of contemporary art. Look for Romare Beardon and others! Enjoy! read more

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I was surprised how much I loved it! Beautiful and thought provoking pieces. Plus Sundays are free! read more

Studio Museum Harlem - View from the courtyard - Art Museums Near Me - New York, New York

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Great cultural institution in Harlem.... im happy it exists. They always have a number of really good art and music based events. SUNDAYS ARE FREE - A welcome walk through of bright creative bliss on a sunday afternoon.. 3 floors, mixed media portrait video and sculpture read more

Beautiful exhibits, horrible staff. I was yelled at by one security guard when pointing to the letters on an exhibit for my 1 year old. I took a photo "NO FLASH" oh, im sorry didnt know it was on... When I finished exploring level two, I was followed to the bathroom. Soon as I came out the security guard from upstairs was there. I walked toward the elevator, she quickly spoke into her walkie talkie "two coming up", then proceeded to wave my sons hand away from the elevator button to go up to the lobby "no no" she pushed it for us... I felt utterly uncomfortable and probably will miss any future beautiful installations.... read more

Um... five stars? Seriously? Are you kidding? The category is "museum"? What's there is good- I thought the painting by Titus Kaphar were really stand out. Unforch, there is no "permanent exhibit" and the whole space takes about fifteen/twenty minutes tops to see. Again, what was there was cool, but I was hoping for more- like a permanent exhibit devoted to the art of the harlem renaissance... Honestly- that's what I was looking for. read more

I was in the area and checked this place out - VERY IMPRESSIVE! The location is conveniently located, the staff are real cool, the price is right ($7 versus any other museum in NYC?!) and the collection is sick! I love it! I'm a photog so the take risks work shown left me inspired. The pieces in each collective varied but all were relative to one another - a beautiful thing. The museum is mid-sized and not overwhelming. You can take your time absorbing the work with each artist in this three level venue. I love the design of this place - I will definitely be back on 125th more often to check out the First Fridays - which is free - and to see other exhibitions! Thx for the hospitality SMH!! read more

Gem of a museum! They feature a lot of young, urban, up and coming artists which I love. Great place to see some modern art. It's small so you can probably navigate the whole museum in an hour or so. Free on Sundays. Cool gift shop. I have purchased some dope jewelry there. read more