A landmark $10 million endowment from the Ford Foundation will secure the leadership role at the Studio Museum in Harlem for years to come, marking a significant investment in one of the nation’s foremost institutions for artists of African descent. The endowment will formally establish the position of “The Ford Foundation Director and Chief Curator,” a role currently held by Thelma Golden, who has led the museum through a period of growth and influence.

The announcement was made by Ford Foundation president Darren Walker at the museum’s annual gala, where he acknowledged the institution’s impact on art and culture over the past half-century. Under Golden’s nearly 20-year leadership, the Studio Museum has become a leading platform for Black artists, opening up critical new avenues for creative expression and scholarly exploration in the visual arts. The museum’s new building, set to open in 2025, aims to expand these efforts, creating space for a wider audience and enhanced programming.

Walker underscored the Ford Foundation’s commitment to addressing inequality through philanthropy, a mission he said aligns deeply with the Studio Museum’s goals. “The Studio Museum has nurtured the careers of extraordinary artists while fostering appreciation and scholarship in African American art,” Walker noted, adding that the endowment reflects the Ford Foundation’s belief in the museum’s role as a cultural leader.

Golden expressed her gratitude for the Foundation’s support, which has been crucial to the museum’s growth and resilience over the years, especially amid recent challenges in the arts sector. “Darren Walker’s transformative leadership has ensured that organizations like ours can continue to thrive and serve our communities,” she said, adding that she was honored to hold the new title supported by the Foundation’s gift.

Located on Manhattan’s West 125th Street, the Studio Museum is undergoing an ambitious expansion that includes a larger Artist-in-Residence program, broader educational initiatives, and expanded exhibition spaces. The new facility promises to continue the museum’s pioneering work, showcasing artists of African descent while enriching the cultural fabric of Harlem and beyond.