We envision a world where African American stories, scholarship, and artistic expressions are actively preserved, widely accessible, and deeply celebrated. Through our efforts, we help fuel a cultural institution that is not only documenting Black history—but shaping it.
Our partnership with ART | library deco enables us to amplify its signature initiatives:
The Texas African American Community Archives Project
In-House Repository of African American Archives & Books Preserved by the library:
The Forthcoming Fort Worth archival hub: The Studio Archive at ART | library Deco
“We’re building a foundation not just for a library, but for a movement—a place where Black voices are preserved, celebrated, and empowered,” - The founding board.
The Friends of ART | library deco was established in June 2025 as a visionary collective and federally recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization supporting the mission of ART | library deco—a digital and future physical African American research art library and repository. Rooted in the library’s Art Manifesto, the Friends group uplifts the cultural legacy of African American artists by fostering community engagement, financial support, advocacy, and cultural preservation initiatives. Members are dedicated to expanding access to digital archives, promoting education, and cultivating inclusive cultural programming through events, partnerships, and community-driven campaigns. Together, they amplify the mission of ART | library deco to serve as a living archive, educational resource, and artistic sanctuary for future generations.
Our Purpose:
Founded in alignment with the growth of ART | library deco and the development of its first physical space in Fort Worth, Texas, the Friends of ART | library deco exists to:
Fundraise: Secure financial support through memberships, grants, sponsorships, and events.
Advocate: Promote awareness of ART | library deco’s mission and cultural contributions.
Engage: Build a diverse, inclusive network of volunteers and partners passionate about Black art, books, archives, and scholarship.
Sustain: Provide strategic backing for the long-term success of ART | library deco’s programs and physical expansion.
Friends of ART | library deco invites individuals, organizations, and institutions to join our growing community. Whether you’re a donor, volunteer, educator, artist, or cultural advocate, there’s a place for you in our movement.
