The Met Reopens

The Met museum reopens

As a member of the press, I was fortunate to be first in line to visit The Met since the building closed on March 13 due to Covid-19. One of the preeminent cultural institutions in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, like other museums in New York City, was allowed to reopen on August 24. The official reopening date for The Met Fifth Avenue, however, is August 29.

The press preview was the morning of August 27 with new three exhibitions making their debut. Here’s an overview of what I saw.

Jacob Lawrence: The American Struggle

A celebrated Black artist from Atlantic City, NJ, Jacob Lawrence places women and people of color in the foreground. This rare collection of  tempura paintings reflects historical moments from 1775 to 1817,  capturing “the struggles of a people to create a nation and their attempt to build a democracy.” The 30 vignettes on display are still relevant in our world today, as we continue to fight for racial justice. More about the collection here.

The Roof Garden Commission: Héctor Zamora, Lattice Detour

The roof garden is always a highlight for me. Inside the museum, it’s almost hard to believe that a frenetic New York exists outside its doors, but as soon as I set foot on the roof and see the cityscape, I know that I am indeed in Manhattan. Hector Zamor’s Lattice Detour is a curved terra cotta brick screen inviting air and light to pass through it. And as you can see in the photo, the ever-evolving skyline rises in the background.

Making The Met, 1870–2020

This extensive exhibition pays tribute to the 150-year life span of the museum, beginning at its founding in 1870 through the present day. I can’t stress how inspiring and uplifting it is to see more than 250 incredible works of art in one exhibit. I will return to The Met again to spend more time studying and taking in both the iconic works and delicate treasures on view in Making The Met. It runs through January 3, 2021. Don’t miss it!

Besides these new additions, I walked through the modern art galleries, European sculptures, and Ancient Egypt collection, one of my favorite sections. Housing one of nine water features in the museum and the Temple of Dendur, the Sackler Wing has to be the most peaceful and inspiring rooms in The Met.

But I could spend days getting lost here. Actually, I usually do get lost! Thankfully, there’s plenty of staff around to point me in the right direction so I can find the exit. With every visit, I get better at navigating. 🙂

Masks, of course, are required. There were plenty of visitors, but with multiple levels and many galleries, the museum didn’t feel crowded at all. Be prepared to have your temperature taken before entering the museum.

The Met will have limited hours, as it will be open Thursday through Monday (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays). For details, visit the website. The Met Cloisters will reopen on September 12.

You will need to purchase a timed ticket, unless you are a local and can pay as you wish.

We need to support cultural institutions like The Met now more than ever. So mask up and head to Fifth Avenue to witness the beauty, history, and brilliance that is The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Doing The Met in the evening is spectacular and my favorite time to visit. And some of the best exhibits in the museum.

And don’t miss Brooklyn’s cultural gems. Plus museums in Queens, unique museums in NYC, and Asian museums.

Posted on August 28, 2020