The physical collection consists of local documentation, inspired imagery, and found artifacts. While the information presented is authentic, drawn from database and special collections, the artifacts on view are actually reproductions. The facsimiles are inkjet-printed newspapers—scaled to size, stained and distressed to emphasize the continued weathering and neglect of black history by MICA.

The Maryland Institute Black Archives revives the voices of past silenced artists by providing access to the experiences of the current black student body.