African American Museum In Philadelphia

Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design

On View: Now
​Galleries 2, 3 and 4

Ruth E. Carter presents “Afrofuturism in Costume Design,” the Exhibition.

In 2019, audiences sitting in the Dolby Theater and watching around the world on television, stood up and roared with joy when Ruth Carter’s name was announced as the winner of the Oscar in Costume Design and, again, in 2023.

This touring costume exhibition showcases the story of Ruth E. Carter’s journey as an artist and storyteller, who found a home and passion in Costume Design as she adventured from her humble beginnings in Springfield, Massachusetts to the legendary Dolby Stage in Hollywood, California, to becoming a two-time Oscar® Winning Costume Designer.

Carter’s filmography and costume design uniquely capture the African-American narrative and leave their mark in cinematic history. The modular exhibition features costumes and artifacts from Carter’s storied career and are displayed in settings infused by Carter’s own artistry including interactive elements and a showcase of costumes from Carter’s private collection. As guests tour the exhibit space, they will be able to see rare, hand-drawn images of legendary film characters and experience a behind the scenes look into Ruth’s research, design, and production process which will inspire the creative story-teller within.

The creative exhibition showcases:

• award-winning work;
• personal sketches;
• iconic celebrated costumes;
• design process that goes into creating costumes that connect actor with character;
• filmmaking and production collaborations that bring the Afro-futuristic costumes to life; and
• impactful contributions to film, television, and pop culture.​​​