From Now: A Collection in Context

A dynamic, rotating collection display featuring over 800 artists of African descent, from the 19th century to present, organized thematically throughout the museum building.

Why go

The exhibition rotates regularly throughout the year, presenting works rarely or never before displayed alongside canonical pieces—offering an evolving dialogue across centuries of Black artistic practice and the museum's foundational commitment to collecting and preserving this work.

What to expect

An installation spanning the entire building with thematic sections that shift and evolve, featuring paintings, sculpture, photography, and mixed media by artists including Basquiat, Bearden, Kara Walker, Kerry James Marshall, and many others, with works from the 19th century displayed alongside contemporary pieces.

Things to know

• Collection comprises nearly 9,000 works by over 800 artists across all media.
• First major collection show in 15 years; accompanied by new handbook 'Meaning Matter Memory' featuring over 260 artists.
• Studio Museum founded in 1968 as non-collecting institution; began collecting at community artists' urging.
• Works organized in thematic sections that unfold and rotate throughout the year.
• Includes pieces by Emma Amos, Romare Bearden, Carrie Mae Weems, Lynette Yiadom-Boakye, and many others.
• Bank of America is lead sponsor; Henry Luce Foundation provided major support.

Plan your visit

Plan your visit through the museum's website at studiomuseum.org/visit. The exhibition runs through August 16, 2026, with rotating displays that evolve throughout the year, so multiple visits reveal different works.