Founded in 1974, the African American Museum Dallas has been independently operating since back in 1979 and cost $7 million dollars to build. It is the only African American Museum in the Southwest which preserves and displays African American art and historical artifacts.
You won’t want to miss seeing the varied collections, all containing some of the finest examples of African American art to be found anywhere. Collections include not only African Art but Folk and Fine Art. There is also an extensive library, well worth browsing through.
Be sure to take time to admire the gorgeous ivory colored building before you enter the African American Museum. You might even want to stop and take some photos before entering the main areas of the Museum itself.
The building is absolutely stunning and visitors frequently comment on its unique form. The structure is cross-shaped and has a 60 foot dome. Ivory, natural materials and designs all reflect the cultures of Africa.
Once inside the Musem, you might want to check out the Folk Art Collection, particularly admired by regular visitors to the Museum. Nationally renowned, the display contains work by such famous African American artists as Clementine Hunter, David Butler, George White, Mose Tolliver and Willard “The Texas Kid” Watson. The simple charm of the art here is especially appealing.
There are also three other vaulted galleries to explore. You also won’t want to miss the collection of African masks, textiles and sculptures. This is a smaller assortment of items than the other artwork in the Museum but the works here are stunning. Stanley Marcus of Neiman-Marcus fame was a major contributor to this section of the African American Museum.
Some exhibits change frequently so be sure to visit the museum again if you return to Dallas later in the year. Past exhibitions have included a look at the largest African American community in Dallas, the Bill R. Allen Folk Art Collection, Bayou Sculptors and more. Whatever is being displayed affords a unique look into some aspect of African American history or culture. Allow time to linger and take in each painting and sculpture.
If you happen to want to find original artwork or some gifts to bring back for others, stop by the Museum gift shop. Feeling hungry? There is a cafe on the premises where you can grab a bite to eat.
If you are lucky, you may be in town when the African American Museum has one of their music series. One popular performance was a a memorial tribute to Michael Jackson which featured classic Motown music. In addition to Jackson’s unique songs, the works of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, the Temptation, Four Tops and others were showcased.
If you’re scheduling a trip to the African American Museum, some nearby attractions are excellent options for fitting into part of your day: Texas Discovery Garden is filled with a variety of totally organic gardens. The Museum of the American Railroad offers a look at early Dallas railroad history. Fair Park is minutes away, covering over 227 acres, with an Art Deco atmosphere. All of these are within a mile of the Museum.
The African American Museum is located at 3536 Grand Avenue and can be reached at (214) 565-9026. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 12-5 pm, Saturday from 10am to 5pm and Sunday from 1-5 .Admission is free.
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