Genesis Celebrates a New Artistic Landmark at The Met
The Genesis Facade Commission proudly unveils its second installment, featuring the captivating works of interdisciplinary artist Jeffrey Gibson. This multi-year partnership between Genesis and The Metropolitan Museum of Art is set to offer an engaging exploration of culture and art. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to view these innovative installations through June 9, 2026.
The Vision Behind the Genesis Facade Commission
Initiated in 2024, the Genesis Facade Commission expands on the Museum's ongoing tradition of contemporary art displays on its iconic Fifth Avenue facade. Each year, a notable artist is invited to create site-specific works that bridge the gap between the artist, the audience, and global artistic discourse.
A Look at Jeffrey Gibson's Contribution
Following last year’s exceptional showcase by artist Lee Bul, Jeffrey Gibson's contribution this year is expected to resonate deeply with visitors. Gibson, who tirelessly represented the United States at the 60th Venice Biennale, presents four new bronze sculptures that reflect his rich cultural perspective.
The Sculptures: Nature and Cultural Identity Intertwined
Each of Gibson's sculptures stands impressively at nearly three meters tall, marking his first major foray into monumental bronze artwork. The pieces incorporate various materials, such as wood, beads, and cloth to develop texture, thus presenting forms of animal figures that engage the animate and inanimate realms. Visitors will encounter representations of a deer, coyote, squirrel, and hawk, all native to the vibrant ecosystems of the Hudson Valley and Central Park.
The Titles and Meaning Behind the Work
The title of the exhibition, The Animal That Therefore I Am, draws inspiration from the seminal text by French philosopher Jacques Derrida, highlighting the intricate relationships among living beings and their environments. By invoking these themes, Gibson prompts us to reflect on the adaptations animals have made due to human presence and what their struggles can teach us.
A Journey Through Cultural Heritage
Gibson, whose heritage includes the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and Cherokee descent, has established himself as a significant figure in contemporary Indigenous art. Having a diverse upbringing across multiple countries, including the United States, Germany, and Korea, he infuses his works with a multifaceted cultural narrative. His artistic practice spans various forms, from painting and performance to video and curatorial work, consistently exploring themes around identity.
Collaborative Expression and Cultural Dialogue
The Genesis Facade Commission aims to evoke dialogue surrounding the relationships between living beings, nature, and urban spaces as envisioned by Jeffrey Gibson. Artists like him inspire deeper conversations about coexistence and the diverse narratives that enrich our cultural landscape.
Collective Mission: A Commitment to Art and Society
DooEun Choi, Art Director of Hyundai Motor, expressed that this exhibition serves as an invitation for audiences to engage with the nuanced dynamics of nature and urban environments. In this celebration of cultural diversity, audiences can expect to witness Gibson's innovative use of materials and artistic vision unfold before their eyes.
Highlights from The Met’s Leadership
Max Hollein, the Chief Executive Officer of The Met, praised Gibson's works as exemplary of his generation's talent. He noted that these new pieces use unconventional materials and forms to reflect often-overlooked histories, further enriching our understanding of the natural world through art. Hollein emphasized the Museum's excitement to host such monumental sculptures on its Fifth Avenue facade.
An Evening Dedicated to the Artist and His Journey
To celebrate this artistic achievement, an event titled An Evening with Jeffrey Gibson is planned, offering insights into the artist's creative journey and the inspiration behind his new commissions. This engaging event will provide a platform for deeper understanding of Gibson's impact on the contemporary art scene.
Expanding the Horizons of Cultural Conversation
The Genesis Art Initiatives continue to foster collaborations with leading institutions and visionaries to inspire meaningful conversations that transcend artistic boundaries. The initiative includes not only the Facade Commission at The Met but also ongoing exhibitions like The Genesis Exhibition: Do Ho Suh: Walk the House at Tate Modern.
About Genesis and Its Artistic Endeavors
Genesis is committed to being a leading global automotive brand that prioritizes performance, design, safety, and innovative technology for a sustainable future. Through Genesis Art Initiatives, the brand emphasizes the importance of authenticity and dialogue on present-day challenges and timeless values. The engagement with contemporary art and artists exemplifies this mission.
About The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Founded in 1870, The Metropolitan Museum of Art was established to enhance public access to art and education. Today, it showcases an expansive collection reflecting centuries of artistic achievement. With its two iconic locations in New York City, The Met continues to be a beacon of culture, engaging millions through both physical and online experiences. The Museum endeavors to bring art to life, encouraging new insights and connections across diverse times and cultures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Genesis Facade Commission?
It is an annual exhibition inviting artists to create site-specific works that engage with audiences and explore cultural themes.
Who is Jeffrey Gibson?
Jeffrey Gibson is an interdisciplinary artist known for his significant contributions to contemporary Indigenous art and culture.
What can visitors expect from Gibson's new sculptures?
Visitors will encounter four monumental bronze sculptures that explore themes of nature and identity, showcasing animal figures like a deer, coyote, squirrel, and hawk.
How does Gibson's work connect with the local ecology?
Gibson's sculptures represent species native to the Hudson Valley and Central Park, emphasizing their relationship with urban environments.
When is the exhibition expected to run until?
The exhibition will be on view at The Metropolitan Museum of Art through June 9, 2026.
