That is, the four domed niches embedded in the neo-Classical facade of the Met’s main entrance on Fifth Avenue. Each niche frames a plinth and is in turn framed by a pair of robust columns two stories high. The three artists chosen thus far — Wangechi Mutu, Carol Bove and Hew Locke — have done well enough, but it may be best to lower expectations. The Met’s facade is an oppressive windmill to tilt at. All use the past to enliven the sculptural present, erase boundaries between styles and cultures and employ new materials and techniques.

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Persons: Mutu, Carol Bove, Hew Locke —, Huma Bhabha, Leilah Organizations: Metropolitan Museum of Art, Center Locations: New York, Iranian, Berlin, Europe, Dallas