Young Rockefeller Disappeared in 1961: The Met Honors His Legacy with New Wing
In 1961, the Rockefeller family was rocked by the mysterious disappearance of Michael Rockefeller, the youngest son of Nelson Rockefeller, former Vice President of the United States. Michael had been on an expedition to study the art and culture of the Asmat people in Papua New Guinea when he vanished without a trace. His disappearance remains one of the great unsolved mysteries of the 20th century. Now, more than six decades later, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City is honoring his legacy with the opening of a new wing dedicated to Indigenous art.
The new wing, named the Rockefeller Wing in honor of Michael, will showcase a diverse collection of Indigenous art from around the world. Mary Rockefeller Morgan, Michael’s niece and daughter of Nelson Rockefeller, has been instrumental in curating the collection and ensuring that her family’s legacy of art appreciation and cultural understanding lives on.
“We wanted to create a space that celebrates the beauty and diversity of Indigenous art, while also honoring Michael’s passion for exploring and preserving these cultures,” said Morgan in a recent interview. “My family has always been dedicated to the arts, and this new wing is a fitting tribute to Michael’s memory.”
The Rockefeller Wing will feature a wide range of Indigenous art, including traditional masks, sculptures, textiles, and paintings. The collection spans centuries and continents, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania. Visitors to the museum will have the opportunity to learn about the history and significance of each piece, as well as the cultural traditions that inspired them.
The opening of the Rockefeller Wing comes at a time when Indigenous art and culture are gaining increased recognition and appreciation in the art world. Museums and galleries around the world are increasingly showcasing the work of Indigenous artists and incorporating Indigenous perspectives into their exhibitions. The Met’s new wing is a testament to this growing trend and a step towards greater inclusivity and diversity in the art world.
One of the highlights of the Rockefeller Wing is a series of paintings by Indigenous artist Emily Kame Kngwarreye, an Australian Aboriginal woman known for her vibrant and abstract works. Kngwarreye’s paintings are a powerful representation of the connection between art and spirituality in Indigenous cultures, and her work has been celebrated for its beauty and complexity.
The Rockefeller Wing is also home to a collection of traditional Maori carvings from New Zealand, intricate beadwork from Indigenous communities in North America, and contemporary Indigenous art from Latin America. The diversity of the collection reflects the vast array of artistic traditions and styles found within Indigenous cultures, highlighting the creativity and innovation of Indigenous artists throughout history.
As the art world continues to evolve and embrace new perspectives, the Rockefeller Wing stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Michael Rockefeller and his family’s commitment to art and culture. The opening of the new wing is a fitting tribute to a young man whose passion for exploration and discovery continues to inspire generations of art lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
In a world that is increasingly interconnected and diverse, the Rockefeller Wing serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring and preserving the cultural heritage of Indigenous peoples. As visitors explore the new wing and immerse themselves in the beauty and complexity of Indigenous art, they are invited to reflect on the power of art to transcend boundaries and unite people from all walks of life. The Rockefeller Wing is not just a museum space; it is a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to the enduring legacy of one young man who disappeared in 1961, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
As we look to the future of art and culture, the Rockefeller Wing raises important questions about the role of museums in preserving and promoting the diversity of artistic expression. How can museums continue to expand their collections and exhibitions to include a wider range of voices and perspectives? And how can we ensure that Indigenous art and culture are given the recognition and respect they deserve in the art world? The opening of the Rockefeller Wing is just the beginning of a larger conversation about the power of art to shape our understanding of the world and connect us to our shared humanity.