2026 Met Gala Carpet Hand-Painted as Stone Garden Pathway

Raúl Ávila, the designer behind the Met Gala since 2007, has been given the responsibility of crafting the decor for the 2026 gala, themed 'Costume Art.' His challenge involves linking the dressed body as a form of artistic expression to the surrounding environment. Collaborating with Baz Luhrmann and set designer Derek McLane, Ávila has drawn inspiration from Northern Italian gardens and Renaissance design to create a romantic setting that enhances the wearable art. This decor coincides with the launch of the Costume Institute's new Condé M. Nast Galleries, showcasing pieces from the museum's diverse collections. The iconic red carpet will be replaced with a hand-painted stone garden pathway in tan, adorned with moss-green patches and framed by light purple, pink, and white wisteria, blending real and trompe-l'oeil elements for a soft spring ambiance. McLane emphasizes that a singular texture offers a 'simplicity of modernity' fitting for this occasion. Guests will walk up the carpet into the museum, capturing photos as they enter a whimsical garden created for the night.