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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / Museums

Ashé Cultural Arts Center

The first institution in New Orleans founded by and for people of African descent, this center serves as a vital hub for African and African American art, culture, and activism in Central City.

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Ashé Cultural Arts Center
www.ashenola.org, og_image_www.ashenola.org

What is the Ashé Cultural Arts Center known for?

It is the first institution of its kind in New Orleans founded by and for people of African descent. The center serves as a hub for African and African American art, culture, and activism, and is described as a testament to the resistance and innovation of cultural traditions across the African diaspora.

What are the hours?

The center is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Where is it located?

The center is located at 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in the Central City district of New Orleans.

Is it good for kids and accessible?

Yes, the center is listed as family friendly and handicapped accessible.

What payment methods are accepted?

The center is cash only.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Located at 1712 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, the Ashé Cultural Arts Center stands as a profound testament to the resistance and innovation of cultural traditions across the African diaspora. The center was established in December 1998, emerging from a collective effort to reclaim the Central City neighborhood as a sanctuary for African and African American activism and art. The institution was co-founded by Carol Bebelle and Douglas Redd, who sought to use the arts to foster economic and community development. Their vision was to shape a narrative of positivity and empowerment for Black people in New Orleans, creating a space where cultural expressions could thrive and inspire transformation. Ashé's roots trace back to 1993 with the formation of its parent organization, Efforts of Grace, Inc. This community-led group paved the way for the center's physical establishment once they were able to lease their current space on Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard in 1998. Today, the center provides critical support for artists and facilitates community development through various art presentations and partnerships. While its primary operations are in Central City, some of its specialized programming takes place at the Ashé Powerhouse Theater located at 1731 Baronne Street.

Visitor tips

  • Bring cash, as the center is noted to be a cash-only establishment.
  • Plan your visit between Tuesday and Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
  • Check the center's official events page before arriving to see if any special cultural programming is scheduled.

Nearby context

The center is a cornerstone of the Central City district, situated on the historic Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, an area defined by its legacy of African American culture and activism.

Sources

Evidence and links