Ongoing
The Met
In November 2024, The Met’s American Wing will mark its centennial anniversary with a thoughtfully reimagined installation that celebrates its rich legacy and evolving vision. This extensive reinstallation showcases an impressive collection of American art and design across three floors. The newly interpreted galleries invite visitors to explore connections within the Wing’s growing hemispheric holdings, spanning from the mid-17th century to the mid-20th century, while thoughtfully incorporating contemporary voices.
Originally established in 1924, the American Wing initially focused on 17th- and 18th-century artworks including furniture, silver, ceramics, textiles, and architectural elements, primarily exhibited in period-room settings. Over the past century, the collection has expanded considerably to embrace a more diverse range of North American makers, reflecting broader narratives and histories. Today, the Wing encompasses foundational holdings of American painting, sculpture, and works on paper, displayed in more than 75 galleries.
This centennial reinstallation uniquely juxtaposes well-known masterpieces with recent acquisitions, select artworks from throughout The Met, and key external loans. This approach fosters dynamic dialogues and fresh perspectives that deepen the understanding of America’s artistic, cultural, and historical complexities. The presentation benefits from expansive scholarship and integrates a diverse array of curatorial insights and community voices, thoughtfully redefining what American art means in a contemporary, inclusive context.
The ambitious project honors the past while inviting ongoing discovery, making it an essential experience for anyone interested in American art history and culture. The American Wing at 100 is supported generously by the Jane Parsons Klein Fund, with additional backing from the Terra Foundation for American Art.
For an immersive experience and further details, visit the official exhibition page at The Met American Wing at 100.
