Houston Museum of African American Culture

The Houston Museum of African American Culture may be small, but it is truly lovely and so thoughtfully curated. The smaller scale actually creates a more intimate and engaging experience. I never felt rushed or like I had to hurry from one art piece to the next. Instead, I was able to slow down and really take in each piece for what it was. Right now, my favorite part is the quilt exhibit. The detail and storytelling in each quilt are incredible. The photos I attached don’t do the pieces any justice. This is definitely something you have to see in person to fully appreciate. I highly recommend visiting and supporting the museum. Entrance is free for everyone, so donating is a meaningful way to help keep this space thriving. It is absolutely worth spending time here.

Went to visit this museum because I have a tremendous love for my people and wanted to find a place where artwork was present. I overall enjoyed the experience but I’d like to state that everything with “black skin” doesn’t make it “our people”. Negroes though similar in skin tone are not culturally the same as other African countries. I said all that to say, some of the artwork in the establishment had nothing to do with the “culture” but was simply there because it’s “black”. If we’re going to have a museum that represents the negro it should be simply that. The artwork overall in beautiful thorough. Definitely visit and buy some artwork cause I will be.

I learned about the museum from a park ranger at the San Antonio Missions. She really hyped it up. That’s why I went. I really liked the exhibit that was there. It was an exhibit by Sonya Clark. I especially liked the table with items to create our own art. I made my own pouch and placed my prayer in it.

This museum is small and quiet, and located in a residential area. It offers the visitor intimacy with the work on display. It was my first time here and I was able to experience the We Are Each Other exhibition featuring the work of Sonya Clark. I personally know a hair artist in one of Sonya’s pieces, and hadn’t seen her since we were teenagers. I was pleasantly surprised and proud all at the same time!

8/2022 Small but mighty. Located in residential area. It’s quiet, very intimate, but speaks volume. Took my 10yr daughter and 3yr nephew at the time. It’s free and has a gift shop on lower level.

I traveled from Alabama to Houston. During this visit, I wanted to see Houston’s African American Museum. I coordinated the visit by the Museum’s operating hours, only to be told that I could not walk through and see the displays. Afterwards, I proceeded to look at the displays on the walls located by the steps, and again was told “the event didn’t start until 2”. I had taken an Lyft from the Galleria area just to visit this museum. Basically, I left. The treatment of “can I help you” while being looked at as an intruder pushed me to walk back to my AirBnB downtown (1.9 miles). The entire walk, I thought, “it’s always us acting stupid”. My doctorate degree is in Biblical Leadership with a concentration of African American history. It’s unfortunate that I could not see any of Houston’s African American history. This treatment made me sad, and I challenge the city of Houston to make a change for the better. Thanks Dr. Valeria Crutcher

The Art To Art Quilt Show is outstanding. The museum is always free but donations are welcome.

Really enjoyed the museum!! I took my kids and they enjoyed it made prayer pockets

This museum definitely was a somber moment on my vacation. It really gave me the inner perspective of the history of the African American experience. The beaded prayer project definitely was a beautiful piece of art and I wish I was able to open and read the prayers.

I came here for an event on a Saturday afternoon, for the Black Art in America - Print fair during BHM. I have never actually come here before, but have wanted to for a while. Parking- There is a small parking lot next on the buildings property inside the gates. And there is also street parking. There is a gift shop located just as you enter. There are lots of various items for sale from different vendors. Including jewelry, clothes, books, art, cowboy hats, etc. Once inside, there is a large main room filled with art that's on display. On this day, it was filled with print art (or copies of originals) for sale. There's also a 2nd floor that has an open space in the center, that can be used for events. Such as panel group that was there that day that I listened to, for a discussion with artist and art collectors (like John Guess and Valerie Cooper) about the topic of fine art collection. It was such a great panel of experts. I learned so much. While I did not purchase any art this time, I really enjoyed viewing all of the art examining it, and talking with some in the art community. I enjoyed learning about the different mediums of the way most black art is made. Overall, I will definitely be back, and suggest you pay a visit. Check out the website for various events and exhibits, or there social media page.

On the first day of Black History month, I finally got a chance to check out the HMAAC. It was such a treat viewing the trove of beautiful print art that accompanied Black Art in America (BAIA)'s Fine Art Print Fair. As soon as I walked into the exhibition room I saw a beautiful print titled "Jennifer" on the wall to my right. :) I learned SO much from the 4-person panel that consisted of Black Artists, a collector/buyer, appraiser, all art enthusiasts. They eloquently expounded on the different types of print art and print art techniques, and shared great tips for print art collecting. Their passion was evident and I walked away with a treasure chest of priceless information. I was so appreciative of the knowledge I gained from such reputable individuals. I didn't buy any art that day but they have definitely sparked my interest and I'm eager to apply what I learned soon. The exhibit/fair was on the first floor btw, along with a shop for buying cute museum items. Restrooms were also downstairs. Upstairs was an empty space where the panel was held. Parking was free and super easy. They have a lot or you can park on the street. I look forward to returning for future cultural affairs. Check out panelist/moderator Jamaal Barber's podcast Studio Noize for an entertaining and educational dive into black art history.

We had a great day of culture and celebration thus Juneteenth. We attended during the day and had free easy street parking. There were live artist discussions, interactive demonstrations and vendors. I enjoyed the having my aura photo taken and the vendors upstairs were super engaging. If you are interested in learning more about culture and history you should check this museum out.

I've visited the museum before 5/5. It's a modern white exterior with a two story gallery space, surrounded by iron fencing, free museum parking and admission 5/5. Gift store is located on the first floor. Staff greeted and gave an overview of exhibits. Free to roam on your own throughout both floors 5/5. First floor exhibit is in a small gallery. Second floor is very warm with upright floor fans. The upstairs gallery spans the entire floor divided into 2 rooms... one smaller than the other. 5/5 Great lighting throughout showcasing artwork.

Let me start by saying we thought this was another exhibit that we later found out was just a pop-up exhibit. We had higher hopes. Ok, so this place only had 4 exhibits. One was just pictures of historical figures playing on a projector being displayed on a wall. There were no words spoken, just pictures. I don't remember the second exhibit. Heading up the stairs you see these two photos of Sandra Bland and George Floyd. Then there was a room with a bunch of du-rags that were just hung up. Then the photos of the guy wearing them and then just a pile of them. The last exhibit was of a lady. She looked familiar but I don't remember who she was. There were multiple pictures of here where they zoomed in on her face, mouth and then a photo of a torn bra. I am not sure of where the culture piece really came in. This was a let down. I'm sure money is probably the issue, but this took us maybe 7 minutes to go through.

This is a very small museum. We took an Uber there. The parking lot is small and it is gated. I saw others post that the museum was closed when they arrived during posted hours. I would call in advance to make sure they are open. Upon entering, there was a stand for donations and local art magazines. I purposely didn't show all the pictures I took, because I didn't want to take away from the experience. My friends and I spent 30 minutes tops in this establishment. This was a self tour type situation. The lady in the store area didn't interact with us much. The first exhibit had some items that were self explanatory, but some needed some explanation. Going up to the second level, there were huge impactful portraits of Sandra Bland, George Floyd and Robbie Tolan with descriptions of their very sad demise at the hands of law enforcement. One area was blocked out. I believe they show films there. The shop area is where I spent most of my time. They had a good assortment of African American art prints and artwork for sale along with African traditional clothing.

We actually saw that this was a free activity to do while being in the houston area. I did enjoy some of the pieces. They were very thought provoking and intricate, and a couple of the pieces I was definitely drawn to. However, the place is very tiny. Upstairs They had a section roped off. So I don't know what exhibit that was going to be, but for the most part, you can be in and out in thirty minutes maybe forty minutes tops. I would love for it to be a next expansion. What more pieces and some thing interactive.

I wish the museum got more funding to support more exhibits. Most of the art was wall mounted descriptions and printed material. It's a small but unique place with excellent staff. Parking can be difficult on weekends so arrive early.

I've lived in Houston for way too long and did not know this museum existed. I must say it took for my friend who's a true museum buff for my family and I to find. I enjoy an exhibit with a purpose and positive message. This exhibit was touching in so many ways that I was educated, entertained, and willing to come back for more. I would love to give all of the details from the exhibit, but then who'd want to attend. I will say make sure you have a few extra dollars to spend at the gift store they some great finds for the whole family.

This is easy to drive past if one isn't familiar with the smattering of museums on Caroline Street or along Southmore Street. Along with my colleagues, we went on a "field trip" to see the newest collaboration and traveling exhibit from the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Ontario by Eknow NImako titled Kumbi Saleh 3020, a utopian vision of Sub-Saharan Africa in the year 3020 all created from black Legos. It was breathtaking! The next exhibit one sees going up the stairs are 3 paintings of those who are no longer with us physically, but their presence and passing sparked movement, conversation, and political action. It was a pensive and introspective walk upto the second floor, which housed 2 exhibits: Zsavon Butler's Ordinary Insanity and Bastard of the Diaspora. So much is explored, said, and communicated in these two exhibits. There are parts of the human condition that always need to be unearthed, and I found myself diving into myself deeply with each encounter of an art piece. This museum has a way of reconnecting one to oneself as well and empowering one to take mindful actions and reactions to our reality. What a gem. The museum is free to the public with donation encouraged; if you have children, please call them as some exhibits may be jarring for younger children.

1 star just so I can add a review-- but I give it -0 stars! don't know who runs this place but it says that they are open Thursday-Saturday 11am-6pm, but the front gate is open and the doors to the entrance are locked! I really was excited to check out that place but like the other reviewer said-- it's very disappointed!

Whenever I visit a new city, I always visit an African/African-American history museum if one is available. I was extremely happy to find one and it was a uber ride from my breakfast spot. I was extremely disappointed that upon arriving and entering the building we were told by a cleaning staff that she had to walk us out of the building because they were closed and we were not allowed to be there. Mind you the gate opened, the front door was open and it was during their posted business hours. I was better off going to the Fine Arts Museum. Very disappointing. 0/10 for a missed opportunity to showcase their work and rudeness of staff.

This museum is a hidden gem. We went with some friends who were visiting from Arkansas and it was a wonderful and educational experience. It was enlightening and interesting to see Black art and culture on display here. The TV monitor that was on a loop showing one family's experience with police was mind-boggling. It needs closed captioning since it was sometimes hard to hear what was being said over the music that was being played as part of the documentary. Entry is free but there is a place to give donations. There is also Black art, clothing, jewelry and purses available for purchase. It's a small museum but packed with Black culture.

Visited this museum a few weeks ago in the afternoon. Located in a nice neighborhood with lots of parking. You need to go online to make a appt to enter. They are following the protocol for Covid. The Museum is self guided 2 floors with clean bathrooms. I really enjoyed the small store on the first floor. I purchased a book from a local artist. The hostess was really friendly and helpful during our stay. The museum is very large with art work on both floors. You can also view a movie playing on the first floor, lots of seating to take a break. It will take you less than one hour to see the entire museum without rushing thru. Great way to purchase and support the locals. You can also rent the museum for events, parties etc, they were setting up for one while during our visit.

This a struggling black-owned museum. The stalls in the restroom are broken, the elevator isn't functioning, it smells terrible and there are stains all over the carpet. An event was held there to bring awareness and revenue to the museum on August 30, 2024 and the event was a success. They decided to copy the entire idea and stole pics from the event without including or consulting the original curator. They are highly unprofessional. My family and I will not be returning.

They are currently open Friday and Saturday and entrance is based on donations so it is free to enter but they do ask for donations but it is not necessary so donate donate donate!!! The Exhibit that's currently showing is the black perspective I found it very interesting and definitely worth checking out they also have a little video playing about the artist that's currently presenting inside their museum and I think that's also spectacular because you get to hear about them and then go check out their artwork and it was pretty amazing to me me. The staff was so welcoming and the gift shop had so much to offer, make sure you check it out before leaving. Side note: the have a wheelchair ramp upstairs and I thought that was great!

I was upset with this venture. Now I probably set my bar high based on reviews from friends but it was not what I expected. I thought it was going to be a large gallery with pictures and art detailing different aspects of Afro American History but that's not what it was. It's 2 levels with a section when you first walk in for purchases. I think it might be more impactful if it was a tour guide to explain the different art pieces but there wasn't one on site so that also took away from the experience Until next review Kisses

A very unique and interesting experience. It looks like they feature new artist every few weeks which is awesome to allow so many artist to display their masterpieces and stories. Art can be so eye opening and sometimes harsh. I enjoyed expanding my mind beyond my normal everyday thinking and trying to connect with the artist as they expressed themselves. They are exhibiting a very all inclusive heart capturing exhibit for Sandra Bland. I recommend this museum as a go see whenever your in Houston!!

Whenever I travel to a city for the first time, I always plan to visit an African/African-American history museum if one is available. While this museum does not appear to be funded by government support, it does appear to offer exhibitions by younger, local, or up and coming artists. I appreciated the gift shop offerings and simplicity of the layout. Parking is available, which is a major plus. The space itself is ideal for hosting an event. I encourage supporting museums like this so they are able to continue to provide a resource for artists and a space for learning. It's small, however has great potential! Stop by and support (with your time and a small donation)!

Always love going here. Just wish we had more places like this. Art exhibition was nice and staff was polite.

It's crazy that Houston, was recently put on a list of top places in the US to visit. On that article this museum was mentioned as one of the cultural reasons that makes Houston such a neat place to come see. Yet, I had never even heard of it. Which made me google it and do my yelp duty by adding it and visiting it myself. There is a lot of construction in the area so it makes it a bit hard to find but the building has plenty of street parking along with their own private lot. They have one small space which was displaying the Houston rap exhibit which was photos of some of Houston's most famous rappers such as scarface along with various in town. They also had a smaller room which was showing the Caroline plantation via a Lego representation. It's completely free with a suggested donation of $3.

I've been here several times now, and I always take something significant away from my experience. This museum was long overdue, and it has become a very important facet of Houston's Black cultural landscape. It has exhibits from amazing black artists and often hosts pro Black events like seminars, book signings, and pop up shops. The museum is free, and there's street parking in the neighborhoods adjacent to the building.

This location is not as big as The Museum of Fine Arts However, don't pass this Museum up because they have some pretty interesting artwork downstairs and upstairs. You'll find yourself lost in a master piece. And even one of the guys that worked there came out his office to speak to me and to let me know a little history about each artist The restrooms are clean and spacious for you to move around.

Came to jumpstart Black History Month. I wish there were more exhibits but that's definitely me comparing it to the big one in DC. Will definitely be back when they change the exhibits

This small and quaint museum offers two floors of exhibits that you will find interesting and informative. On the day I visited they had featured The Kinsey Collection. It contained memorabilia of Alavert before and during the Civil War. Then it follows the progress of African Americans to the present including the civil rights movement. The collection was very good. Entrance to this museum is free. It is worth your time to come by here. I would budget 30-45 minutes to stay here. They also have a free parking lot adjacent. I recommend. Closed on Mondays.

I visited the museum.The admission free.I donated $5.It was a small museum.I saw one exhibition and movie.I enjoyed it.

I really liked it, Saw the last day of the Sandra bland exhibit and bought my gf a piece of art they had for sale. Only 2 exhibits where open.. wish it had more.

Love the current exhibit by Aesha Lee I posted pictures of. You can get through all the collections in 1-1.5 hour. Ample parking and very clean facilities. They were very friendly and willing to explain the pieces if need be. Most pieces were available to purchase. Exhibits regularly change I will definitely make this museum a regular stop when I visit Houston.

Cute museum. It's actually quite large, but not many exhibits were open when we went, only 3 or 4. Totally not what I was expecting. I think that I was thinking of something more along the lines of the African American museum in DC. There is no set fee to enter, but be prepared to give a donation. They had the most amazing sangria as an added bonus. Their hours can vary, so it's best to give them a call first to make sure that they are open and that you don't have a wasted trip.

Today is field trip Friday and we opted for the HMAAC. The museum is free but accepts donations. The gentleman at the front asked us to sign in and made us feel welcome while waiting. The artistry that was displayed downstairs was by a gentleman named Shawn Artis. He has some great work and writes a detailed description of what the artwork represents. Upstairs, briefly told about what happened to Sandra Bland. One was allowed to pic up headphones and listen to excerpts from Sandra Bland. They had a car setup with a video of the police dashcam that showed what happened during her traffic stop. The third area was a memorial for her and even included her obituary(Don't take them) They spoke of Juneteenth and had a video showing The New Juneteenth One is able to purchases items such as shirts and bookmarks and see a semi calendar of expected speakers and artist in the front. On another note, the museum is not that big and it was somewhat warm in there today. Perhaps the AC was out. However, I would definitely ,comeback to see and learn about the different exhibits and artists that are available here

I had a pretty interesting experience at HMAAC. I was visiting friends here in Houston and was really excited to see this museum. However, the mayor booked the entire museum for an event so we could not get in. Surprisingly enough, the museum CEO spoke with us and was very empathic about us not being able to view the exhibits. He gave us some Houston history and spoke about great strides in the Arts community. He directed us to another exhibition 'Project Row Houses' which ended up being a highlight of my trip. It was the premiere of their latest artist round and it was a true healing experience. I am glad he lead us there.

The host of the museum was awesome. Very knowledgeable and insightful. I do wish the museum had more material displayed and a few renovations would be beneficial. Great place to check out if you're in the Houston area.

This is probably one of my favorite museums in the Houston area not only is it convenient, organized and filled with great positivity and a wonderful atmosphere. But perhaps it's so interesting learning about my own culture it's so interesting with a comfortable setting , historic backgrounds and lots of facts. I also met many of new friends and still have wonderful friendships today that I'm excited about.

Great Museum and beautiful art work! Great people! I took my daughter and her friend and they learned a lot and we were able to read the history of all the artwork.

This is a great museum. Like the name implies it is a museum that features the work of black artists. However, I think people of all races will appreciate this place. I only went once a couple months back. I enjoyed it. The work of Tara Conley was the main exhibit. It was very interesting and thought provoking. I love the large portrait upstairs of the black guy with blue eyes dressed as royalty with gold in his mouth. Looks like a Kanye West album cover. It's eccentric and very beautiful. I think it used to be a free museum awhile back, but they charge a small fee now. I believe it's 5 bucks for adults. Sign up for the e-letter.

Well, this is a sad, lonely little museum that needs some press! I'm shoutin' from the rooftops that you should get over here! It's FREE and the exhibits are exceptional. HMAAC features unique exhibits that give you the opportunity to experience a piece of Houston culture through different lenses. I popped in because I read about the Kingdom of Gold: Photos of Ghana exhibit. I spent a bit of time in Ghana, frequently miss it and just needed a little comfort. The photos took me right back to my small village in the Eastern Region. I really felt as if I was there celebrating, dancing and smiling with Ama and Kofi all over again. Ms. Kaplowitz definitely captured the very essence of Ghanaian joy and spirit! The great thing about HMAAC is that the exhibits are short run, always changing and you never know what you're going to find. Just a few months ago, there was an exhibit focused on the Houston rap scene. I wish I had known and could've seen that! Check out their site and get over there to experience something you won't find at MFAH (although MFAH is awesome and I am a member!)

Man, I don't remember the young man's name at the front desk. Brother was very knowledgeable and willing to share his wisdom. I enjoyed the experience. It's amazing and to think its Free! I would have expected long lines but nope. This beautiful building, excellent displays of art and no children to grasp the wisdom. Where is everyone? I'll be back .

i came back here to give this place another chance and this museum is so terrible. i cannot believe this is even a business. the people leaving valet had loud music blaring from their car with the "n" word repeatedly being said and no one cared. it was normal to them. this is disgusting.

Took some kids there about a month ago. Sad. Empty rooms. Limited a/c. Few exhibits. I did enjoy the Juneteenth documentary. However the Buffalo Soldier Museum down the street was fantastic.

Very thought provoking. Free, takes donations. It would have been nice to go with a group and discuss but I was by myself. Doesn't take very long to go through. Def pushes boundaries, which is what we need.

Visited here while the Kinsey Collection was installed. This was our first visit to this museum and we were supremely impressed! The tour was very detailed and informative, if rife with debatable content. But we have to debate such things. American history is muddied by convenient modifications and omissions. Ok before I go off on a rant, the Kinsey Collection was amazing and I look forward to returning for future exhibits.

This place is great!!!!!!!!! Went here last Thursday to attend a screening of the new film YELLING AT THE SKY. The staff here are so frieindly and they know what they are doing. The space is filled with art from local African American artist. The film series is featured once a month and open to the public. All you have to do is show up. And the cost you might wonder... it's $free.99. LOL Check out the website, www.hmaac.org All the information that you need to be in the know is on the website. I will be back for the next screening and anything else that they will have going on in the future.

This is was my first time my wife and I came to this museum and we enjoyed it. I was greeted with a smile by their friendly staff. The art exhibit they had was amazing and very insightful. I plan to come back soon.

I took an afternoon to dedicate to small Houston museums, and the HMAAC was on the list to tour. It is a small museum, but the quality and diversity of the Art made an impact on a good visit. The location is very modern and has plenty of parking. It would be a great location to rent out for a private event...not sure if they do that though. It cost $5 which isn't much to support a small, local museum. I plan on following them to see what type of events they host as the venue is extremely nice.

I drove down to Houston from the DFW to check out A Burning House, and the museum was closed during operating hours, very disappointing.

Great place for lectures and other intimate events. Went this Saturday for the Dr. Anthony Browder lecture on his Egyptian restoration project. Very interesting, great crowd.

Visited the museum for the first time this weekend. Heard about the Kinsey Collection and made this a must-see. The museum is quaint and rather small but for free admission no complaints here. Left with a positive impression as the displays and content were relevant, well conceived, and impactful. The only disappointment was the wife and I really wanted to purchase t shirts and hats but no one manned that area. I even attempted to look online to see if I can order the items but nothing is available. I guess I will have to swing by again.

I have to say I was not impressed with this museum at all. First of all it showed the hours of operation to be Saturday 10:00 am-5:00 pm. I showed up at 9:55 am and sat there until 10:55 am and no one showed up to open the museum. I finally was able to reach somebody by phone at 12:00. I went back to the museum at 3:30 and was very upset with what we saw. First of all the only thing they had was art, no artifacts, etc. The art exhibits they had were in poor taste. One picture was of a lady shooting the finger, another was a child shooting the finger with the word BITCH painted across it, and another one had a lady wearing a shirt that said I WILL BREAK YOU all over it. To me this was not an educational visit, and I do not recommend it for children. I had my 9 year old daughter with me and she was in shock at the pictures. The website was very misleading.