Welcome to the Cultural Museum of African Art
At the Cultural Museum of African Art, our vision transcends geographical boundaries as we endeavor to relocate the vibrant essence of African art and culture into the hearts and minds of people worldwide. Our belief is rooted in the transformative power of cultural heritage—a power that not only celebrates diversity but also fosters a profound understanding of our shared human history.
A Tapestry of 4,000 Years
Step into a journey through time, where the rich tapestry of African heritage unfolds over 4,000 years. Each exhibit within our walls is a testament to the diversity, resilience, and creativity of the African people. From ancient civilizations to contemporary expressions, our museum weaves together the threads of a cultural narrative that has shaped the course of history.
Igniting Unity through Understanding
Beyond the artifacts and artworks, our mission extends to fostering a greater understanding among all cultures. By showcasing the intricate beauty of African art, we aim to ignite a profound sense of unity—a recognition that, despite our diverse paths, we share a common humanity. The stories told within these walls are not just African stories; they are stories that resonate with the human experience.
Join us on a captivating journey that transcends time and borders. The Cultural Museum of African Art invites you to explore, learn, and celebrate the richness of African culture—a celebration that contributes to the collective tapestry of our global heritage.
The Beginning of a Collection
The story of the Cultural Museum of African Art began with a commitment to preserving and sharing the richness, diversity, and history of African art and culture.
At the heart of CMAA is the collection of Dr. Eric Edwards. What began as a passion for African art and cultural heritage grew into an extensive collection representing the many peoples, traditions, and histories of the African continent.
The collection reflects the belief that African art is more than something to be displayed. Each object can tell a story about a people, a place, a tradition, a period in history, or a way of life.
One Continent. 54 Countries. Thousands of Stories.
The CMAA collection brings together more than 3,000 artifacts representing all 54 African countries and spanning more than 4,000 years of history.
3,000+
Artifacts
54
African Countries
4,000+
Years of History
Together, these objects provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the extraordinary diversity of African cultures and civilizations—from ancient history to traditions that continue to shape communities today.
The collection also creates an opportunity to look beyond individual objects and understand the people, craftsmanship, traditions, and histories behind them.
From Collection to Museum
As the collection grew, so did the vision for making it accessible to the public.
The Cultural Museum of African Art was established to provide a place where people could encounter African art and history in a meaningful way. The museum creates opportunities for visitors to learn, explore, ask questions, and develop a deeper appreciation for the cultures represented throughout the collection.
CMAA is not simply a place to view artifacts. It is a place where history, art, education, and cultural understanding come together.
Building a Home for African Art
Creating a museum required more than assembling a collection. It required creating a space where African art and history could be presented, experienced, and preserved for generations to come.
Architect Rodney Leon played an important role in shaping the museum’s architectural vision. The museum’s physical environment is part of the visitor experience, providing a setting in which the collection and its stories can be encountered.
The development of CMAA represents the transformation of a significant collection into a public cultural institution dedicated to African art and heritage.
2021 — A Major Investment in the Future
A major milestone in the museum’s development came in 2021, when CMAA received a $1 million grant through the New York State Assembly.
The investment, supported through the efforts of Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman and Speaker Carl Heastie, represented an important step forward in the development of the museum and its ability to serve the public.
This support helped advance the vision of creating a lasting institution dedicated to preserving and sharing African art and cultural heritage.
November 18, 2023 — The Grand Opening
On November 18, 2023, the Cultural Museum of African Art celebrated its Grand Opening at Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration.
The opening marked an important moment in CMAA’s journey—from the development of a remarkable collection to the creation of a museum where that collection could be shared with the public.
It was the beginning of a new chapter: opening the doors to visitors and creating a place where African history, art, and culture could be experienced firsthand.
CMAA Today
Today, the Cultural Museum of African Art continues its mission of connecting people with the art, history, and cultures of Africa.
Through its collection, exhibitions, educational experiences, special events, and community engagement, CMAA provides opportunities for visitors of different backgrounds and generations to discover and learn about Africa.
The museum also continues to develop its digital presence, creating new ways for people to discover its collection and learn about its work before, during, and after a visit.
Whether visiting independently, coming with a group, attending an event, or participating in an educational experience, every visitor becomes part of the continuing story of CMAA.
The Story Continues
The history of the Cultural Museum of African Art is still being written.
From a growing collection to the creation of a public museum, CMAA has continued to build a place where African art and cultural heritage can be preserved, studied, shared, and experienced.
As the museum grows, so does its opportunity to reach new audiences, create new educational experiences, strengthen community connections, and introduce future generations to the richness and diversity of Africa.