Take your visit to new heights with a ride on the Centennial Ferris Wheel! Buy tickets in advance to save time.

Learn more and get tickets.

today at the museum Open today 10 am–8 pm
Costumes in the exhibit, including Black Panther, The Butler, and Malcolm X.
Home Experiences Exhibits Ruth Carter Exhibit

Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design

Admission
included
Dates
Open through Sept. 7, 2025
From crafting the regal look of a Wakandan king to shaping the vibrant style of “Do the Right Thing,” Carter has spent decades bringing stories to life through her iconic, award-winning costumes.
  • See more than 60 costumes from Ruth E. Carter’s legendary film credits
  • Explore how her vibrant designs—the results of extensive research and meticulous attention to detail—bring characters to life and uniquely capture the Black experience
  • Learn how Carter incorporates elements of Afrofuturism—a movement that reimagines and reinterprets the past and present for a more empowering future for African Americans
  • View various mood boards and hand-drawn sketches of legendary film characters
  • See the object that launched it all: Carter’s beloved childhood sewing machine
Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design is recommended for ages 8 and up.

Opens March 22, 2025

Ruth Carter HeadshotFrom crafting the regal attire of a Wakandan king to shaping the vibrant aesthetic of Do the Right Thing, two-time Academy Award winner Ruth E. Carter has spent nearly four decades bringing stories to life through award-winning costume design. Her iconic creations played a pivotal role in films that defined generations. Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design will showcase her personal collection, legendary costumes, interactive displays, and live programming, telling the story of Carter’s journey from a young girl with a passion for art to a visionary costume designer. This exhibit is designed to inspire young minds, spark creativity, and fuel imagination.

Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design features more than 60 costumes from Carter’s legendary film credits, including:

Special Events & Daily Activities

daily activity
Costume Conundrum: On the Set!
Ruth E. Carter’s costume assistant needs your help on a movie already in production! Join the costume team and work quickly to solve on-set issues before the trailer is released.
6+ and families
30 minutes
learn more
daily activity
Story Through Style: Mood Board Workshop
Work with your family to create a mood board and follow Ruth E. Carter's process of costume design.
6+ and families
20 minutes
learn more

Sensory information

Get ready for your visit by reviewing the sights and sounds you'll experience in Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design

Quiet Areas
Low Light
today at the museum