Ancient Egypt Comes to Life: Art Meets the Underground

Unveiling the Connection

The Metropolitan Museum of Art's vast collections, spanning time and continents, now extend into the depths of New York City's subterranean labyrinth. As part of the groundbreaking exhibition "Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876–Now," three site-specific installations grace subway stations, connecting the worlds of art and urban commutes.

Subway as Gallery

Since the 1980s, the MTA has commissioned public art, enriching the daily journeys of travelers. But this collaboration with The Met marks a unique milestone, bringing ancient Egyptian influences into the heart of Manhattan.

"Celebrations of ancient Egypt unite these three site-specific works," proclaims The Met, "symbolizing the ongoing resonance and kinship to this remarkable African culture."

Inspiring Expression

The exhibition explores the profound impact of ancient Egypt on Black artists, intellectuals, and communities. Through sculptures, paintings, music, and scholarship, they have embraced the Nile's rich past to forge a unified identity and inspire modern-day creations.

"Ancient Egypt is a symbolic source... that continues to inspire," says Max Hollein, CEO of The Met. "This exhibition sheds light on a creative tradition that extends beyond museum walls."

Subway Art Tour

Immerse yourself in the intersection of museum and subway art at the New York Transit Museum's talk, "Museums without Walls: the MTA and the Met Intersect," led by curator Akili Tommasino.

Subway Installations

At 125th Street Station (4, 5, 6), a bronze pyramid beckons. Conwill's work explores themes of community, history, and sacred space.

At Central Park North at 110th Street (2, 3), step into a mosaic tribute to Malcolm X. His words, including references to Egypt, adorn the station walls.

Visible from Metro-North's Park Avenue Viaduct, "Harlem Encore" celebrates the neighborhood's legacy with sphinxes and vibrant silhouettes.