Art and Artifacts Division

The Art and Artifacts Division collects, documents, preserves, and interprets art and artifacts by and about peoples of African heritage throughout the world. Fine and applied art and material culture objects from the seventeenth century to the present are collected, with emphasis on the visual arts of the twentieth century in the United States and Africa.

Learn more about this division. | Ask a librarian.

Are research appointments required to access the collections onsite?
Research is by appointment only. Please email schomburgart@nypl.org if you would like to set up your appointment.

Are virtual consultations available and are they required before making an onsite research appointment?
Patrons can email schomburgart@nypl.org to schedule a virtual consultation. Virtual consultations may be required depending on a user's needs.

What else do researchers need to know about accessing the collection?
Registration of a Special Collections Account is required for consultation of materials in the Art and Artifacts Division.

Who can researchers contact with further questions?
Email us at schomburgart@nypl.org with any additional queries.