Inside the Studio Museum in Harlem, art across generations, movements, and mediums showcases Black artists’ presence and power. More than a gallery space, the museum functions as a cultural anchor that preserves Black history, amplifies voices, and inspires aspiring creatives.

When Loona “Pumpkin” Dawson created Nefer, she said she wasn’t aiming to create just another coffee shop. Nefer aims to offer “safety of thought,” inviting locals into a space that is rooted in curiosity and conversation.

Image Credit: Stephen Conti