Solange is no stranger to incorporating art museums into her performances. In May 2017, she transformed the Guggenheim Museum into a visual feast of Black excellence and sisterhood. And just before taking the stage with her sister Beyoncé at Coachella this past April, she premiered her art project “Metatronia” (Metatron’s Cube) at UCLA’s Hammer Museum in Los Angeles.
Now, the “Cranes in the Sky” singer-songwriter is opening her heart, and wallet, to give 12 Houston-based high school students a chance to discover art by helping Project Row Houses (PRH), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people and enhancing the community through art and direct action, meet their fundraising goal to sponsor a trip to Washington, D.C.
Thanks to Solange’s generous donation, the group of minority students will be able to take part in a special tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), including viewing a permanent display on Project Row Houses and work by the organization’s founding artist Floyd Newsum.
The partnership with PRH is a natural one, considering Solange grew up performing at the nonprofit’s block parties.
“We are honored to have our work and the work of Floyd Newsum commemorated at this historic institution and are very grateful to Solange for her generous support of what will be a transformative experience for our Third Ward youth,” said Executive Director Eureka Gilkey. “Seeing their community represented at this level will provide the students with a more profound understanding of themselves, their history, and their culture.”
In addition to exploring the museum, the students will also get the chance to visit other historical landmarks, such as the 11th Street Bridge Project and the National Portrait Gallery.