The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s reopening of the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing on May 31, 2025, was not merely a ceremonial ribbon-cutting but a vibrant affirmation of the museum’s commitment to presenting the arts of Africa, the Ancient Americas, and Oceania with renewed vigor and contextual depth. The daylong festival transformed the institution into a dynamic space of cultural exchange, featuring live performances, art-making workshops, and culinary experiences that echoed the diverse traditions represented in the newly reimagined galleries.
Architect Kulapat Yantrasast of WHY Architecture, in collaboration with Beyer Blinder Belle and The Met’s Design Department, spearheaded the renovation, which encompasses over 40,000 square feet of gallery space. The design pays homage to regional architectural vernaculars, creating an environment that fosters a deeper understanding of the artworks’ cultural contexts. The galleries now feature over 1,800 works, including new acquisitions and commissions, presented with innovative technologies and interpretive materials that enrich the visitor experience.
A highlight of the festival was the participation of vendors from Queens Night Market, who offered pre-colonial menus inspired by the wing’s collections, providing attendees with a sensory journey through the culinary histories of regions such as Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Hawaii, New Zealand, and Peru. Art-making workshops led by artists like Manny Vega, Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, and Teokotā’i Paitai engaged visitors in creating mosaics and textiles, fostering a communal appreciation for the artistic practices of diverse cultures.
The reinstallation of the galleries reflects contemporary scholarship and collaboration with international experts, offering nuanced narratives that foreground the autonomy and artistic achievements of the cultures represented. Digital features, including films by Ethiopian-American filmmaker Sosena Solomon, provide immersive insights into significant cultural landmarks across Africa, further contextualizing the artworks within their historical and geographical milieus.
In sum, the reopening of the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing signifies a transformative moment for The Met, embracing a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to presenting global art histories. The festival not only celebrated the physical renovation of the galleries but also underscored the museum’s evolving role in fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation
