Spring into Art: April Events at The Metropolitan Museum

Historic Statue in Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City - Image by mariakray

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a mecca for art that attracts millions of visitors annually. However, most miss out on the museum’s impressive programming. Sure, the splendors of Egypt and impressionist paintings capture attention, but expert talks, workshops, classes, and performances often go unnoticed. Before visiting, check the April calendar and plan to attend one of the many events.

Talks

Let’s face it, just looking at art means you’re missing out on a lot. If you are not an art expert, the true meaning and story behind the art can be lost. Attend one of the many talks to get the full experience and meaning of the art displayed. The museum’s experts, curators, and scholars host talks throughout the galleries. Attendees can get deeper insight into a selection of art. Ask your burning questions and get a closer view than the general public.

For April, the Met will host the following talks: 

  • Ink and Ivory: Indian Drawings and Photographs Selected with James Ivory
  • Jesse Krimes: Corrections
  • Caspar David Friedrich: The Soul of Nature
  • Floridas: Anastasia Samoylova and Walker Evans
  • The Genesis Facade Commission: Lee Bul, Long Tail Halo
  • Mirando retratos de cerca
  • The New Art: American Photography, 1839–1910

Workshops and Classes

Take an introspective dive into art history and how it impacts modern perceptions. The Educator Workshop in April, Invented Narratives, focuses on Chinoiserie, an art style that became popular in the 1700s. Europeans were obsessed with Chinese art and depictions of Chinese women. Some of this art was accurate, but much of it was not. Despite being inaccurate, the ideas and imagery shown in this art continue to influence people’s perceptions today. This workshop teaches you to analyze how you see art, your perceptions, and how to change your views.

Art should be enjoyed by all, even the youth. The Met promotes this idea by hosting workshops and classes for young artists. The classes are divided by age group. For the youngest of art enthusiasts, the Hello Met! program is designed for children aged 2-4. It’s the perfect introduction to the world of modern art with a fun mix of songs, stories, and art activities. 

For children aged 5-8, several workshops and classes are held throughout April. The painting lab on Mondays and Thursdays teaches how to mix paint and artistic techniques in watercolor and tempera. On Fridays and Saturdays, you can learn about mythology and folklore from around the world. The Material Exploration program teaches children about the different art concepts and materials. Drawing Adventures takes attendees through 5,000 years of drawing art, focusing on texture, color, and composition. 

Workshops and classes are also offered for children aged 9-12. During the Friday painting lab, children will develop their skills beyond what they learned in the younger-geared workshops. During the Material Exploration workshop, attendees learn about drawing, sculpting, painting, and printmaking. The Drawing in the Galleries class takes children into the museum to learn about drawing throughout history. They will develop their skills in perspective, shading, observation, and composition. Finally, the Pause of Pegasus workshop teaches children how to make creative connections between literature and art.  

Performances 

Art is more than just creating a physical piece like a painting or sculpture. Art can also be performative. So, of course, The Met hosts live performances by modern performers. The museum’s galleries are a perfect setting, allowing you to immerse yourself in all kinds of art. Three performances will take place in April. 

The latest performance in the ongoing Sight and Sound series features Leon Botstein and The Orchestra Now. It combines visual art with orchestral music. Attendees can sit among art while listening to music, and then participate in a Q&A afterward. Immerse yourself in the 19th-century German Romantic Movement. Artists during this time looked for ways to find a connection with nature. The human soul needs nourishment, and this can be found through inspiration in the natural world. Experience this for yourself with the paintings of Caspar David Friedrich and Symphony No. 3, "Rhenish" by composer Robert Schumann. 

Head to the European Paintings 1300–1800 gallery and enjoy a performance by the Rosettes. As part of the TENET Vocal Artists series, this talented group of singers celebrates Renaissance European song traditions.

See up-and-coming talent with the Julliard Historical Performance Chamber Music Series. Advanced students in the historical music department come to the museum and perform with period instruments.  

Attend an Event in April at The Met 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is more than a static building that houses art. It’s a living, breathing center that teaches and encourages participation. You can immerse yourself in modern art by attending one of The Met’s many April events. Deepen your understanding and appreciation of art by learning more about the stories behind the art. Staying at The Wallace is the perfect sophisticated place to lay your head. Its peaceful atmosphere is perfect for contemplating everything you experience at the museum. Guests of The Wallace Hotel can walk 1.3 miles to the museum in about 30 minutes or take a 10-minute cab ride.

Book your stay at The Wallace Hotel and plan your next visit to The Met and its April events.