The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Vacheron Constantin have launched an Artisan Residency Program, selecting three inaugural residents: woodworker Aspen Golann, jewelry maker Joy Harvey, and ceramicist Ibrahim Said. Over 18 months, the trio will receive mentorship, studio space at the Met, full access to its archives and collections, and exposure to Vacheron Constantin's craftsmanship techniques in Geneva, culminating in original works that reflect their practices.
The residency matters because it bridges fine art and luxury craftsmanship, offering artisans rare resources and time to push the boundaries of their mediums. By focusing on process rather than commercial output, the program highlights the value of preserving traditional techniques while encouraging contemporary innovation, setting a model for cross-institutional collaboration in the art world.