The Studio Museum in Harlem is approaching a transformative moment with the opening of its new 82,000-square-foot building. This modern space, designed by Adjaye Associates and Cooper Robertson, aims to reflect Harlem's vibrant cultural heritage while serving as a beacon for contemporary art. However, with this major development comes the challenge of visually narrating the museum's deep-rooted history, community connection, and evolution in a way that bridges the past with the present. The museum needed a compelling and cohesive video that captures its journey—from its original location to the new building—using archival footage to honor its past while highlighting its future.

To address this, I was tasked with creating a short-form video that seamlessly combines archival footage and present-day visuals, telling the Studio Museum's story as a pivotal cultural institution. Through creative camera techniques—such as static frames capturing Harlem’s iconic streets from unique angles and Super 8/VHS transitions—I crafted a visual narrative that leads viewers from the original museum through the streets of Harlem to its new home. The film morphs between past and present, juxtaposing archival shots of Harlem’s brownstones, churches, and stores with modern-day footage, creating a smooth and engaging transition that reflects both the museum's history and its exciting future in the heart of Harlem.

The video successfully captured the essence of the museum’s past and future, resonating with viewers. The CEO of the museum praised the film, believing it perfectly conveyed the intended message and celebrated the institution’s evolution.