It was back in 1999 when then Mayor Lee P. Brown appointed a committee to look into creating an African American museum. What came of that study was two institutions, the African American Library at the Gregory School and the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC). It joins the African American Museum in Dallas and the George Washington Carver Museum in Austin as the some of the most popular African American museums in the state of Texas. It also joins several cultural African American sites in and around Houston including galleries, the Black Holocaust Exhibit at the Shrine of the Black Madonna Cultural & Events Center, and the Black Cowboy Museum in Rosenberg. Although, with some 34,000 annual visitors, HMAAC is the most visited African American establishment in the city.

The contemporary, two-story structure opened its doors in 2012. The museum is not just a place to reflect on art, but a vibrant part of the community, “exploring stories inspired by themes of opportunity, empowerment, creativity, innovation, and cultural interrelationships.” Through the use of interactive exhibits, films, and events it seeks to enlighten and entertain.

“We’re helping to define an incredibly diverse and multifaceted community of people of color in Houston,” HMAAC’s chief executive officer, John Guess, Jr., told the Houston Chronicle at the 2012 ribbon cutting. “The African American artists we bring in transcend race, as it should be.”

Currently on exhibit, until August 16^th, We Are Each Other is a nationally touring exhibit bringing together more than 30 years of Sonya Clark’s transformative, community centered works ranging from beaded prayers to hug textiles. The exhibit is co-presented by the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft. An acclaimed artist, Clark also teaches art at Amherst College in Massachusetts.

Of the permanent exhibits, one gallery is dedicated to the late Houstonian Bert Long, Jr.’s art. Besides being a prolific artist of national renown, Long was also a co-founder of Project Row Houses. Another must see is the Jazz Church of Houston where you can listen, learn, and celebrate the history of jazz in Houston.

As HMAAC’s mission statement reads: “HMAAC seeks to invite and engage visitors of every race and background and to inspire children of all ages through discovery-driven learning. HMAAC is a museum for all people.” Often called a hidden gem, HMAAC doesn’t have the profile of the local museum of art or receive the media attention of the museum of natural science here, but it is a must-see attraction in the Museum District and an important part of our city’s history.

Open Wednesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., the museum is always free, although donations are appreciated. And don’t forget to visit the Culture Shoppe filled with jewelry, wearable art, and wall art by local artisans just waiting for you to take home.

by Marene Gustin