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The Reading Room at Sanman Studios in Houston celebrates Black culture and joy through literature and art history.
The city of Houston is home to a unique and fascinating space called “The Reading Room.” This special place, located at Sanman Studios in Downtown Houston, is dedicated to showcasing the rich history and culture of Black art through its impressive collection of books.
The visionary behind this reference library is Amarie Gibson, who saw a need for a go-to place to source foundational works in Black art. As an art history graduate, she understands the importance of having access to literature that represents the Black diaspora. She explains, “I wanted to find a place where I could be surrounded by books – Black art books, specifically.”
Gibson’s collection has grown to over 800 books, covering a wide range of topics from Afrofuturism to works by iconic authors such as Zora Neale Hurston and James Baldwin. There are also more contemporary works by visionaries like Spike Lee and local favorite Beyoncé. One of the gems in the collection is the Cowboy Carter art book, created by a fellow Houstonian.
The Reading Room officially launched in February 2023, but Gibson’s passion for the art scene has been evident for years. She has helped revitalize museums and hosted pop-up events, all in the pursuit of creating a space dedicated to Black art and culture. The Reading Room is not just a library, but a hub for creativity and community.
Gibson explains, “It’s just culturally specific, young and cool – a place where reading is sexy. It’s fun, colorful, and calm – not too overwhelming.” She is committed to making this space accessible and welcoming to all, especially those who may not have had the opportunity to study art history before.
Unfortunately, Black people are still underrepresented in the art history world, particularly in academic disciplines and museums. The Reading Room aims to change that by prioritizing works by Black artists and writers. As Gibson puts it, “My motivation for creating this space is to provide that sort of access to other people who don’t necessarily have the opportunity to study art history.”
But The Reading Room is not just about showcasing Black art, it’s also about celebrating the stories and lives of Black people. Gibson is dedicated to archiving and preserving Black culture, creating a safe and empowering space for all to enjoy. The best part? It’s free for all visitors, with programs and events held throughout the year.
In a world where Black art and voices are often overlooked and undervalued, The Reading Room stands as a beacon of hope and representation. As Gibson declares, “I’m committed to our stories, to the way that we live, who we are, and to making this amazing place where we can feel safe and celebrated no matter what happens.”
