The Metropolitan Museum of Art has unveiled its 2025 Roof Garden Commission, titled *Ensemble*, by artist Jennie C. Jones. The installation features three upright sculptures made from concrete travertine and powder-coated steel, whose angular forms are inspired by musical instruments—a zither, an Aeolian harp, and a one-string instrument. A fourth red floor piece acts as a "conductor." The works are equipped with frets and strings that vibrate in the wind, inviting viewers to engage with them as both visual and sonic objects. The exhibition also includes collaborative programming, performances, and a publication with contributions from curator Lauren Rosati and artist Glenn Ligon.
This commission matters because it extends Jones's decades-long exploration of Black avant-garde music and Minimalist abstraction, translating sonic improvisation into sculptural form. By making the artworks interactive and responsive to natural elements like wind and sunlight, Jones challenges traditional boundaries between visual art, music, and audience participation. The installation also underscores the Met's commitment to presenting contemporary artists who engage with historical and cultural narratives, positioning Jones as a key figure in conversations about abstraction, race, and interdisciplinary practice.