African American Museum (Dallas) facts for kids
The African American Museum of Dallas is a special art museum located in Fair Park, Dallas, Texas. It's a place where you can explore and learn about African American art, culture, and history. The museum first opened in 1974 and has been working on its own since 1979. Its unique building, shaped like a cross, was built with donations and help from the city of Dallas. It uses natural materials and designs that remind people of old African cultures.
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Discovering Its Past
The African American Museum of Dallas began in 1974. It was first part of Bishop College, a school that focused on educating Black students. Since 1979, the museum has been an independent place. The building cost about $7 million. This money came from private donations and a special vote in Dallas in 1985. That vote helped provide $1.2 million for the museum's construction.
A Unique Place in the Southwest
This museum is the only one of its kind in the Southwestern United States. It is dedicated to saving and showing African American art, culture, and history. It also has one of the largest collections of African American Folk Art in the U.S.. Folk art is art made by ordinary people, often using traditional methods.
Learning and Exploring
The people who run the museum want to make sure everyone, especially kids, has a great experience. They want to help people who might not usually visit art museums feel welcome. The museum has a rich collection of American art and history. You can find these treasures in four large galleries. There is also a research library where you can learn even more.
The museum's permanent collections include African art and African American art. They also have many archives, which are collections of old magazines, historical papers, and community records. Visitors can also learn about African American culture through many fun and educational programs. These programs often happen in an "educational plaza" that has a theater and classrooms.
Amazing Collections
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The museum building is located almost exactly where the Hall of Negro Life was during the Texas Centennial Exposition. The museum has a permanent collection of artworks by many famous African American artists. These artists include Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Larry D. Alexander, John T. Biggers, Clementine Hunter, Benny Andrews, Edward Mitchell Bannister, Welmon Sharlhorne, and Arthello Beck. Their works help tell important stories and show the beauty of African American creativity.
