The
Metropolitan Museum of Art will observe World AIDS Day for the 21st consecutive year on Tuesday, December 1, 2009. In recognition of the devastating losses suffered by the cultural community as a result of AIDS, the Metropolitan
will shroud or remove from view 15 works of art around the Museum. Stanchions in the Great Hall will acquaint visitors with the Museum’s observance, and black ribbons will be tied around the flowers in the Great Hall. In addition, the Museum will lower the flags on its plaza to half-staff to symbolize the losses due to AIDS-related deaths in the art community. The works will be returned to view by Wednesday, December 2. The Cloisters, the Metropolitan’s branch museum for medieval art in Fort Tryon Park, will also participate in observing World AIDS Day.