We're Making
Black History
Now.

In Portsmouth,

Woman in restaurant with arms crossed

Perseverance & Pride

About Us

The story of African Americans in Portsmouth is one of both perseverance and pride, struggle and achievement. Black History Now! is a City of Portsmouth Museum’s initiative to create opportunities to celebrate Black excellence and honor the stories of Portsmouth’s Black communities throughout the city’s history. In Portsmouth, Black History isn’t a month or something you find in a history book. We're still making it today.

Canvas For
Creativity.

This City Is A

Portsmouth Riverfront

Celebrating Portsmouth's Artists

Missy Elliott
MISSY ELLIOTT

Art Is Revolutionary Exhibit

@ PORTSMOUTH COLORED COMMUNITY LIBRARY MUSEUM
FRIDAY - SUNDAY: 10AM - 4PM

Portsmouth has a long history of Black artistic achievement, from globally renowned soprano Matilda Sissieretta Joyner Jones to hip hop pioneer Missy Elliott. In 2024 the arts take center stage, as Black History Now! showcases some of the area’s most successful Black artists, filmmakers, musicians, and changemakers. Meet the artists who made history in Portsmouth through this historic collection of memories and artifacts, highlighting the impact of Portsmouth’s artists.

Graham Jackson Sr
GRAHAM JACKSON SR.
Matilda Sissieretta Joyner Jones
MATILDA SISSIERETTA
JOYNER JONES

Upcoming Events

Join Us

Meet phenomenal Black artists across all mediums and celebrate those who change the world one frame, one song, one photograph, and one meal at a time.

Art is Revolutionary Exhibit
Friday - Sunday
10AM - 4PM
Portsmouth Colored Community Library Museum
Art is Revolutionary Exhibit
Visit our Art is Revolutionary exhibit, and explore the lives of groundbreaking Hampton Roads' artists.

Art Is Revolutionary

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Museums and Tourism Administration
521 Middle St., Portsmouth, VA 23704 | 757-393-8983