Museum for African Art

The Museum for African Art is America’s leading institution devoted exclusively to African art and culture. It is a major publisher on African art and one of the only museums generating traveling exhibitions on the subject. Since its founding in 1982, the museum has organized 55 major exhibitions, published numerous catalogues, and presented programs for all ages.

The museum also maintains an active presence on the African continent:

• In 2009, the museum presented an exhibition of the remarkable art of the Yoruba city-state Ife, in collaboration with the Nigerian National Commission for Museums and Monuments. In conjunction with the exhibition, the museum is training Nigerians in all aspects of museum management.
• A version of the museum’s recent exhibition of art from the Urhobo region traveled throughout Nigeria, sparking interest by local people in traditional art.
• Museum staff members travel to Africa to meet with local craftspeople and buy merchandise for sale in the Museum Store. Some craftspeople create items specifically commissioned by the museum for its sole distribution. A new merchandise source was recently cultivated when museum staff met with a women’s group in Mali to advise them on organizing cooperatives and developing new products.
• With Drew University, the museum conducts a month-long academic program in Mali. Students and faculty participate in lectures and travel to study traditional and contemporary African art and culture.