The Met Will Present New Artisan Residency Works
Three artists will debut pieces created during an 18-month residency program at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Fine Art
Live Poll
Do you support luxury brand collaborations with museums to preserve artistic and cultural heritage?
On October 8, 2026, Vacheron Constantin and The Metropolitan Museum of Art will present three works emerging from their joint Artisan Residency Programme. The debut follows an 18-month period where selected artists combined traditional techniques with modern technology.
Why it matters
This program serves as a creative incubator designed to preserve artistic and cultural heritage through collaboration. It bridges the gap between historical decorative arts expertise and contemporary craftsmanship.
The residency engaged 3 artists over a period of 18 months. The program represents the latest output from a partnership between Vacheron Constantin and The Met that began in 2023.
The players
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Located in New York City, this institution is one of the world's largest and most significant art museums.
Vacheron Constantin
This Swiss luxury watch manufacturer, based in Geneva, is recognized as one of the oldest clock and watchmaking companies in the world.
Aspen Golann
A furniture maker and artist, she created a series of wooden vases titled Vessels for the residency.
Ibrahim Said
An artist known for ceramic works, he developed a piece named Shaping Time for the residency.
Joy Harvey
A metal artist who created the Ruined Splendour Bronze Diadem coronet for the project.
The details
Artists Aspen Golann, Ibrahim Said, and Joy Harvey created unique pieces titled Vessels, Shaping Time, and Ruined Splendour Bronze Diadem. Each work draws inspiration from The Met's collection and utilizes techniques ranging from hand-crafting to 3D scanning.
Timeline
1755: Vacheron Constantin signed its first apprenticeship contract.
2023: Vacheron Constantin and The Met began their relationship.
May 2025: The Artisan Residency Programme launched.
October 8, 2026: The three works are presented at The Met.
Industry Dynamics
The residency program echoes the structure set by the 1755 Vacheron Constantin apprenticeship contract, demonstrating a continued institutional commitment to long-term craft training. This initiative highlights a broader shift where luxury brands are increasingly investing in artistic incubation to differentiate their heritage.
The public can view these new works during the presentation at The Metropolitan Museum of Art starting October 8, 2026. This exhibition provides New York City residents an opportunity to see the intersection of historical collections and modern creative processes.
The takeaway
The residency showcases how modern technology like 3D scanning can complement traditional craftsmanship in creating fine art. Readers interested in craft should note how interdisciplinary collaboration can preserve techniques that might otherwise fade over time.
Further reading
Learn more about the local art scene by exploring Fine Art.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Haute Time.
Live Poll
Do you support luxury brand collaborations with museums to preserve artistic and cultural heritage?
