If you’re looking for the next big thing in cultural exploration, you won’t miss the latest exhibition at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History, and Culture titled “Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures.” The exhibit explores Afrofuturism and how Black writers and artists have used themes of technology, science fiction, fantasy, and heroism to envision Black liberation.

In a conversation with the exhibition’s curator, Kevin Strait, we learn more about Afrofuturism and why the museum chose to focus on this subject now.

What is Afrofuturism?

Afrofuturism is a concept expressed through a Black cultural lens that envisions liberated futures for African Americans. It explores how Black writers and artists have utilized themes of technology, science fiction, fantasy, and heroism to envision Black liberation.

Why is Afrofuturism important now?

Afrofuturism has historically been a significant driver of African American culture and expression. The exhibition explores how Black artists, orators, leaders, and intellectuals have utilized themes of technology, sci-fi, space, and heroism to envision futures of black liberation. By focusing on this subject now, the museum hopes to emphasize the importance of understanding Afrofuturism as part of a larger tradition of Black intellectual history.

What can visitors expect from this exhibition?

The exhibition explores the concept of Afrofuturism through literature, music, art, film, fashion activism, and visual media. The goal is to help visitors understand the many ways that Afrofuturism has been expressed and utilized by Black artists and intellectuals throughout history. Through a diverse array of mediums, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the many possibilities that Afrofuturism presents.

Who were some of the historians that first talked about Afrofuturism? And what claims did they make?

Mark Dery coined the term Afrofuturism, and Alondra Nelson, Greg Tate, Tricia Rose, and Nalo Hopkinson developed a listserv to discuss and develop the language of this new conceptual model. These historians were interested in exploring how Black artists and intellectuals used science fiction, technology, and other themes to imagine a better future for themselves and their communities.

“Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures” is an exhibition that will captivate anyone interested in exploring the intersection of Black culture, technology, and liberation. With a diverse range of mediums and perspectives on display, this exhibition will inspire and challenge visitors to imagine new possibilities for the future. The exhibit opened on March 24, 2023, and will be on view until March 24, 2024. It’s located on Concourse Level (C1) at the Bank of America Special Exhibitions Gallery.
For ticket info, visit: https://nmaahc.si.edu/passes