The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) will reopen its Arts of Africa galleries on May 31, 2025, in the Michael C. Rockefeller Wing.
This reimagined space presents approximately 500 works spanning from the 12th century to contemporary times, including notable pieces like a 12th-century fired clay figure from Mali’s Inner Niger Delta and “Bleu no. 1” (2014) by Abdoulaye Konaté of Mali. One-third of these works are new acquisitions, on display at The Met for the first time.
The renovation, led by architect Kulapat Yantrasast of WHY Architecture in collaboration with Beyer Blinder Belle Architects LLP, integrates regional architectural elements, such as a ceiling design inspired by Mali’s Great Mosque of Djenné. The overhaul included a glass wall for better illumination, new fixtures for increased artwork display, and new audio, text, and video features. The galleries are designed to highlight Africa’s distinctive cultural landmarks and underscore connections to other major world traditions.
The project emphasizes authorship by featuring biographies of around 40 recognized artists, including Nigeria’s Olowe of Ise. Contemporary research grounds the reinstallation, which involves collaborations with international experts from the United States and across sub-Saharan Africa.
Enhancing the visitor experience, the galleries incorporate digital initiatives developed in partnership with the World Monuments Fund. These include a series of short films produced with Ethiopian-American filmmaker Sosena Solomon, showcasing Africa’s cultural landmarks and also providing deeper context to the artworks.
This reopening aligns with New York City’s broader cultural renaissance in 2025, coinciding with the city’s 400th anniversary celebrations. The revitalization of the Rockefeller Wing, part of a $70 million upgrade, reflects The Met’s commitment to presenting a more inclusive and comprehensive narrative of global art.
The renewed Arts of Africa galleries invite visitors to explore Africa’s rich artistic legacy, offering a space where historical and also contemporary works converge and celebrating the continent’s diverse and profound creativity.
