Get ready for a spectacular unveiling at The Metropolitan Museum of Art as the newly reimagined galleries dedicated to the Arts of Africa, the Ancient Americas, and Oceania are set to reopen on May 31, 2025, after a multiyear transformation of the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing.
Innovative Design and Digital Storytelling
The renovation, spanning over 40,000 square feet, was expertly designed by Kulapat Yantrasast of WHY Architecture, in collaboration with leading experts, has crafted a space that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Natural light floods through custom glass walls, illuminating over 1,800 works that span continents and centuries. The galleries now integrate cutting-edge digital storytelling, allowing visitors to explore artist biographies, historical sites, and contemporary perspectives like never before.
This grand reopening promises a treasure trove of over 1,800 works from five continents and hundreds of cultures. The unique collections will be displayed in a way that pays homage to the architectural styles of each region, creating a truly immersive experience for visitors.
Arts of Africa: A Tribute to Cultural Heritage
The Arts of Africa gallery will showcase 500+ pieces, including newly acquired works and an innovative digital collaboration with filmmaker Sosena Solomon, bringing Africa’s cultural landmarks to life. A striking architectural tribute to the Great Mosque of Djenné will anchor the gallery, emphasizing Africa’s rich artistic heritage.
Ancient Americas: A Celebration of Indigenous Art
In the Ancient Americas galleries, 700 artifacts celebrate the legacy of Indigenous artists from across Latin America and the Caribbean. A dedicated space for Andean textiles—the first of its kind in the U.S.—highlights millennia of artistry in fiber arts. The new layout mirrors the sacred architecture of Mesoamerica and Peru, enriching the visitor experience.
Oceania: A Reimagined Pacific Art Experience
Meanwhile, the Oceania galleries offer a bold reimagining of Pacific art, featuring 650+ works from 140 cultures. With a diagonal spatial design inspired by Pacific navigation and oratory, the collection connects history with contemporary Indigenous perspectives. New commissions by Oceanic artists further bridge the past and present.
A Fresh Perspective on Global Traditions and an Exciting New Chapter for The Met
As you explore the galleries, you can expect to see beloved highlights presented in innovative ways, along with never-before-seen objects, including new acquisitions and a special gallery dedicated to ancient Andean textiles. The design also incorporates a stunning sloped glass wall that will filter natural light, providing a picturesque backdrop overlooking Central Park. This reopening marks a new chapter for The Met, offering visitors a fresh perspective on these diverse cultural traditions. Get ready to be captivated by the rich history and artistry waiting to be discovered in the heart of New York City.
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