Mickalene Thomas Transforms Auto Garage Into Creative Headquarters

The acclaimed artist discusses her new Brooklyn studio with friend Whoopi Goldberg

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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After decades of working in studios that were either too bright or too dark, acclaimed artist Mickalene Thomas has found the perfect creative space - a two-story mechanic's garage in her Brooklyn neighborhood of Fort Greene. Thomas transformed the 7,000-square-foot auto garage into a multifunctional headquarters that includes a gallery, silkscreening wet room, and entertaining space. She worked closely with architect Miriam Peterson to design the space, which features an open kitchen and communal office areas to foster a collaborative environment for Thomas and the other artists she works with. Thomas, who is the first African-American artist to have a solo show at the Grand Palais in Paris, discusses her new studio and creative process with her friend, actor and television personality Whoopi Goldberg.

Why it matters

Thomas's new studio represents her commitment to building a community-driven creative space that celebrates Black artists and culture. By transforming an auto garage into a multifunctional headquarters, Thomas has created an inspiring workspace that reflects her diverse artistic practice and her mission to support and mentor emerging artists of color.

The details

Thomas's new studio is located in the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn, an area that has long been a hub for acclaimed Black artists like Lorna Simpson, Kara Walker, Carrie Mae Weems, Glenn Ligon, Adam Pendleton, and Spike Lee. The 7,000-square-foot space, which was previously an auto garage, features an open layout with a gallery, silkscreening wet room, and entertaining areas. Thomas worked closely with architect Miriam Peterson to design the space, which includes an expansive open kitchen and communal office areas to foster a collaborative environment. Thomas wanted the studio to be a community-driven space that goes beyond just serving her own creative needs, and she hosts regular events and meals for the artists she works with.

  • Thomas began the three-year renovation of the auto garage in 2022.
  • Thomas's touring monographic exhibition 'All About Love' is currently on view at the Grand Palais in Paris, making her the first African-American artist to have a solo show at the French museum.

The players

Mickalene Thomas

An acclaimed artist known for her paintings, photographs, and collages that celebrate Black women and culture. She has worked in studios for decades and finally found the perfect creative space in a two-story mechanic's garage in her Brooklyn neighborhood.

Whoopi Goldberg

A friend and supporter of Mickalene Thomas, as well as an actor and television personality.

Miriam Peterson

The architect who worked with Mickalene Thomas to design her new 7,000-square-foot studio space in Brooklyn.

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What they’re saying

“When I walked in, I just teared up. I've received so many texts and DMs that said, 'Do you know you're plastered all over Paris?' This institution is showing up. To me, this is just the beginning.”

— Mickalene Thomas, Artist (Elle Decor)

“I come from a long line of incredible matriarchs who always fought to do the right thing. My mother worked and struggled, so I know what it takes to get things done. I have a mission and a vision, and nothing is going to get in my way.”

— Mickalene Thomas, Artist (Elle Decor)

“Most of the people who work with me are also artists. I want this to be a place they want to come to.”

— Mickalene Thomas, Artist (Elle Decor)

What’s next

Thomas plans to continue hosting community events and activations at her new studio, building on its mission as a collaborative and inclusive creative space.

The takeaway

Mickalene Thomas's transformation of an auto garage into a vibrant, multifunctional studio space reflects her commitment to creating a community-driven hub for Black artists and culture. By designing the studio with input from her architect and fostering a collaborative environment, Thomas has established a creative headquarters that goes beyond just serving her own practice, but aims to uplift and support the broader artistic community.