Genesis has officially launched the second edition of its Genesis Facade Commission at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, featuring new works by interdisciplinary artist Jeffrey Gibson. The exhibition, titled The Animal That Therefore I Am, will be displayed on the museum’s Fifth Avenue facade until June 9, 2026. This initiative is part of a multi-year partnership aimed at fostering engagement with contemporary art and addressing significant cultural themes.
Debuting on September 15, 2025, the exhibition showcases four monumental bronze sculptures, marking Gibson’s first major use of this material at such a scale. Each sculpture stands approximately three meters tall and is designed to engage viewers with its intricate textures and forms. The pieces, which represent a deer, a coyote, a squirrel, and a hawk, are inspired by the native wildlife of both the Hudson Valley, where Gibson’s studio is located, and Central Park, the site of The Met.
Gibson’s work integrates elements such as wood, beads, and cloth into the bronze, creating a dialogue between the animate and the inanimate. The exhibition’s subtitle, drawn from Jacques Derrida‘s 2002 text, emphasizes the relationship between humans and animals, as well as the challenges these creatures face in adapting to urban environments. Gibson’s artistic practice reflects his identity as a member of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and his Cherokee heritage, employing Indigenous aesthetics to explore themes of collective identity and human relationships.
Engaging with Contemporary Art
In discussing the significance of the exhibition, DooEun Choi, Art Director of Hyundai Motor, noted, “The second exhibition of The Genesis Facade Commission invites the audience to engage with the enhanced relationships between living beings, nature, and urban surroundings as envisioned by Jeffrey Gibson.” This sentiment underscores the intention behind the commission, which aims to inspire discussions on cultural diversity and coexistence.
Max Hollein, The Met’s Marina Kellen French Director and Chief Executive Officer, expressed enthusiasm for the new sculptures, stating, “Jeffrey Gibson is one of the most remarkable artists of his generation and a pioneering figure within the field of native and Indigenous art.” Hollein highlighted how Gibson’s innovative use of materials and forms allows for a fresh exploration of often-overlooked histories and the natural world.
In conjunction with the exhibition opening, an artist talk titled An Evening with Jeffrey Gibson was held, providing insights into the artist’s creative journey and the themes reflected in the new commission. This event further emphasizes Genesis Art Initiatives’ commitment to facilitating meaningful cultural dialogues through the arts.
About Genesis and The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Genesis, a global automotive brand, aims to embody the highest standards of performance, design, and sustainability. The Genesis Art Initiatives foster collaborations with institutions and artists who understand contemporary challenges. This includes not only the Genesis Facade Commission at The Met but also exhibitions like The Genesis Exhibition: Do Ho Suh: Walk the House at Tate Modern, which runs through October.
Founded in 1870, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has become a cornerstone of cultural education, showcasing thousands of artworks spanning over 5,000 years. With millions of visitors each year and a robust online presence, the museum continues to connect art enthusiasts with diverse cultural narratives.
For more information on Genesis Art Initiatives and upcoming exhibitions, visit www.genesis.com/art.html or follow @genesis_worldwide using the hashtag #GenesisArtInitiatives.