How a Historic Home Sparks Community Conversations

Installation view, Yinka Shonibare, Party Time: Re-imagine America in Dining Room, 2023 and 1885. Photo by Stephen K. Johnson

The Newark Museum of Art, located in the bustling heart of Newark, New Jersey, stands as a beacon of cultural richness and diversity. Under the visionary leadership of its director and CEO, Linda C. Harrison, the museum has embarked on a transformative journey. A recent $12 million restoration of the John and Jeanette Ballantine House epitomizes the museum’s dedication to making history relevant to its diverse community. This ambitious project transcends mere preservation, aiming to forge a deeper connection between the museum and the people it serves.

Changing Perceptions: A Personal Journey

AT our recent Museum Live conference Harrison explained that th inspiration behind this project could be traced back to her childhood experiences at the Art Institute of Chicago. Growing up on the south side of Chicago, the museum world seemed distant and predominantly white. Her grandmother’s words, “Museums are for white people, not for us,” resonate with many communities of color who feel disconnected from cultural institutions. Today, the Newark Museum of Art is challenging and changing this narrative by making its exhibits more inclusive and reflective of the community’s diversity.

Newark: A Cultural Mosaic

Newark, often overshadowed by its proximity to New York City, is a cultural mosaic. With a population of around 300,000, Newark boasts a rich tapestry of ethnicities: approximately 50% of its residents are of the Black diaspora, 36% are Latinx, and 34% are immigrants. Despite its struggles, Newark has produced an impressive array of creative talents, from artists like Willie Cole and Barbara Kruger to musicians like Queen Latifah and Whitney Houston. The Newark Museum of Art, situated on a four-and-a-half-acre campus in downtown Newark, aims to reflect and celebrate this diversity.

The Ballantine House: A New Narrative

The Ballantine House, a Gilded Age mansion built in 1885, is a significant part of the museum’s campus. Historically, the house represented the white elite, with little acknowledgment of the people of color who contributed to its upkeep and the city’s vibrancy. The museum’s mission was to change this by reinterpreting the house’s narrative and making it relevant to the community today.

Integrating Contemporary African American Art

One of the first steps in this transformation was integrating contemporary African American art into the Ballantine House. A notable example is Dmitri Wright’s painting “Black Couple Watching TV,” which responds to the 1967 Newark Rebellion, a pivotal moment in the city’s history. By placing this artwork in the primary bedroom, the museum juxtaposes the past with contemporary reflections on race and identity. This shift invites visitors to engage in conversations about the house’s history and its broader implications.

Celebrating Diverse Stories

In the foyer, traditional artworks were replaced with pieces by artists of color. A striking addition is a painting of a fire brigade featuring Lorenzo Trent, a Black driver who served the community for 25 years. This artwork honors the often-overlooked contributions of Black and immigrant workers in the late 1800s. By highlighting these stories, the museum challenges the single narrative previously told.

Interactive and Multisensory Experiences

The museum’s approach extends beyond visual art. An interactive game called “The Goat Game,” inspired by Monopoly, features curators, gallerists, donors, and institutions—all people of color. This element allows visitors, especially children, to engage with art and history in a playful and educational manner. The game pieces, inspired by African art, further emphasize the cultural richness the museum aims to celebrate.

Installation view, Noelle Lorraine Williams, Stay: The Black Women of 19th-Century Newark in Percy’s Bedroom, 2023 and 1885. Photo by Richard Goodbody

Additionally, the museum introduced multisensory experiences. Soundscapes, including the crackling of a fireplace and the sounds of billiard balls, enhance the historic ambiance. A music lounge was also created where visitors can listen to records by Newark-born artists like Queen Latifah and Whitney Houston, honoring these artists and providing a reflective space for visitors.

Engaging Contemporary Installations

The dining room features an installation by British Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare. His work, “Party Time: Reimagine America,” showcases headless figures in royal attire, exploring themes of race and culture through textiles and sculptures. This installation invites visitors to imagine themselves as part of this opulent scene, bridging the gap between the past and present.

Honoring Women’s Contributions

Listening Lounge. Photos by Richard Goodbody (L & C)

A video installation by local artist Noelle Lorraine Williams highlights the contributions of Black women in Newark’s history. Displayed in Percy Ballantine’s former bedroom, it showcases the lives of women like Sarah, Ellen, and Hannah—teachers, businesswomen, and former slaves who played crucial roles in their communities. These stories, previously untold, enrich the narrative of the Ballantine House and provide a more inclusive historical perspective.

A Cultural Shift Within the Museum

Restoring the Ballantine House was not just about physical preservation but also about a cultural shift within the museum. Addressing internal culture was crucial to genuinely engage with the community and tell diverse stories. This involved staff training and open discussions about race, privilege, and inclusion. By fostering an environment where diverse voices are heard and respected, the museum can better serve its community and create innovative exhibitions and programs.

Community Response and Impact

The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents now feel a sense of pride and ownership when they visit the Ballantine House. This project has shown that a Gilded Age home can indeed catalyze urgent community conversations and foster a deeper connection between a museum and its audience. By embracing a more inclusive narrative, the museum not only honors the past but also inspires future generations to see themselves reflected in its story.

Linda C. Harrison shares the Newark Museum of Art story at MuseumNext Live 2024

Conclusion

The Newark Museum of Art’s transformation of the Ballantine House demonstrates that history is not static. It evolves and grows with the community it serves. By fearlessly uncovering and celebrating diverse stories, the museum ensures that cultural institutions remain relevant, engaging, and inclusive for all. This innovative approach sets a precedent for museums worldwide, showcasing the power of reinterpreting historical narratives to reflect and celebrate the diversity of their communities.