Thursday, October 24, 2019

'Harlem Roots' Exhibit to Open at the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building


Will Showcase New York State Harlem Art
Collection for the First Time in More Than 20 Years

A new exhibit, "Harlem Roots," will open later this month in the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building, marking the return of the New York State Harlem Art Collection to the public for the first time since the mid-1990s. The exhibit features select pieces from a collection by artists who have made significant contributions within their communities and the art world at-large. These artists helped elevate what was coined "community art" to what is now considered some of the finest American art created in the 20th century by predominantly Black and Latino artists working in New York City. More information on the exhibit can be found here.

"Recognizing Harlem for its rich cultural history and the influence artists and their art have in this vibrant community, New York State is pleased to return the Harlem Art Collection to its public place at the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building," Governor Cuomo said. "This exhibit celebrates the artists whose work helped elevate New York as a beacon of the art world and will serve as a tribute to their incredible contributions to the art community at-large."

"We are proud of our rich culture and diversity in New York, and this new exhibit will highlight the great work of 20th century Black and Latino artists," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "The 'Harlem Roots' artwork will celebrate our community strengths and promote inclusiveness among all New Yorkers. I encourage residents and visitors to visit the exhibit and see it firsthand at the Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. State Office Building in New York City."

The "Harlem Roots" exhibit will be unveiled at a preview reception open to the public on October 30 in the Powell Building's second-floor Art Gallery and Community Room. Beginning November 15, the free exhibit will be on view to the public from noon to 7 p.m. each Friday. The building is located at 163 West 125th Street.

The New York State Harlem Art Collection was conceived in 1976 to draw the public's attention to art that celebrated the contributions of the Harlem art community. Then Senator H. Carl McCall established a Harlem State Office Building Committee on Arts and Culture in 1975, which included State and City leaders, as well as representatives of the Harlem business community.  

Click here for the full announcement.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

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