Wagner’s epic Der Ring des Nibelungen has stimulated, intrigued, frustrated, and provoked countless artists across mediums—including Anselm Kiefer, one of contemporary art’s most acclaimed and respected figures. Twelve of Kiefer’s Ring-inspired pieces will make their opera house debuts this month in From the Met to the Met: Anselm Kiefer and Wagner’s “Ring,” a collaboration with the company’s museum counterpart on Fifth Avenue, to coincide with the revival of Otto Schenk’s production in March.

In addition to lending the works to the Met, the museum plans to hang several of their other Kiefer holdings in conjunction with the Gallery Met exhibition. “We are delighted to cooperate with our sister institution across the park,” says Gary Tinterow, chairman of the department of modern art at the Metropolitan Museum. “I hope that this is only the first of many collaborative endeavors.”

The show was organized by Gallery Met director Dodie Kazanjian, who says, “The theme of redemption is crucial to both Kiefer and Wagner.” She points out that Kiefer’s works are not meant to illustrate the operas, but rather are inspired by their themes, as well as by the Norse tales that Wagner adapted in the cycle.

Ealan Wingate, director of Gagosian Gallery (which represents Kiefer in New York), agrees that catharsis is at the center of both men’s work. “Ultimately, the most important thing for the spectator is that there’s a transformative quality— and that’s true too of Wagner,” he says. “I think that’s what Anselm Kiefer is after: the hopeful creation of new, a better place.” —Matt Dobkin

From the Met to the Met opens in Gallery Met on February 17. (Please note new opening hours.) Wagner’s Ring cycle returns to the Met on March 25.

Artwork (detail): Anselm Kiefer (German, born 1945): My Father Pledged Me a Sword.  1974-5.  Watercolor, gouache, and ballpoint pen on paper.  11-1/4 x 8  in.  (28.6 x 20.6 cm) Titled (in ballpoint pen, upper center): Ein Schwert verhieß mir der Vater

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Purchase Lila Acheson Wallace Gift, 1995.  (1995.14.14) Image © The Metropolitan Museum of Art

All artworks © Anselm Kiefer