Sex and Gender in the Middle Ages November 23, 2025
Posted by judylobo in Zoo.Tags: Art exhibit, gender, Metropolitan Museum, Middle ages, NYC, photography, The Cloisters
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The Metropolitan Museum’s Cloisters is one of my favorite spots to visit in NYC. The current show at the Cloisters is called Sex and Gender in the Middle Ages and it is wonderful. With more than 50 pieces from Western Europe created during the 13th through 15th centuries including paintings, statuettes, illuminated manuscripts, textiles, household items and jewelry. The show demonstrates that modern times have no monopoly on sexual humor, gender fluidity or boundary-crossing artwork. Focusing on an era when religion was art’s most frequent subject, the exhibition investigates often overlooked themes of gender and sexuality that scholars say lie beneath these objects’ surfaces. I learned a lot visiting the show (but as usual – I forgot most of it already). The exhibit reveals that many saints (more than 30) changed their gender presentation during their lifetimes, usually female to male.
Scholars emphasize that while the Church had strict doctrines, especially regarding non-procreative sex, the reality was more varied. Art and literature often reflect a more nuanced or even subversive view of sexuality and gender. Key themes include the subordination of women, the broad concept of incest. The interesection of medical science and gender roles and the use of queer theory to uncover hidden aspects o medieval life, like gender variance and non-normative sexual practices.
A Cloistered Life December 12, 2021
Posted by judylobo in Zoo.Tags: animals, art, Met Museum, Middle ages, NYC, photography, RISD, tapestry, The Cloisters, Unicorns
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When I was an art student at RISD (a very long time ago) we were required to take one art history course each semester. It was a fascinating way to learn about world history – though the art of the time. My very favorite class was a medieval art immersion. I fell in love with the iconography, the illuminated manuscripts, the history and the importance of art during those chaotic times. I had not been to the Met’s Cloisters since right before the pandemic shutdown. It was wonderful to return and see this very special place. Interested in how this magnificent space came to Manhattan? Click here: It is easy to get to and well worth your time. 
The Cloisters December 22, 2019
Posted by judylobo in Zoo.Tags: Fort Tryon Park, Gothic, NYC, photography, Photography Workshop, Romanesque, The Cloisters, Unicorns
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One of my favorite places in NYC is the Metropolitan Museum’s Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park. I try to make my way at least once a year. Our visit took place on a rainy, foggy, misty day which made for an even more special atmosphere. Not being able to see more than a few feet in front of us allowed our imaginations to soar thinking about the Romanesque and Gothic origins of this European structure and treasures. Yes the Cloisters sits in upper Manhattan but it is really a world away. After our visit a short walk took us to the delightful New Leaf Cafe in Fort Tryon Park for lunch.
The Cloisters October 28, 2012
Posted by judylobo in Traveling.Tags: architecture, art, Bette Midler, Fort Tryon Park, Metropolitan Museum, New Leaf Cafe, NYRP, photography, The Cloisters, travel
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A branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Cloisters is located in beautiful Fort Tryon Park, overlooking the Hudson River. The museum and gardens are devoted to the art of medieval Europe. I love this place. It is a quick trip on the A train and a lovely walk through the park. On your way to the Cloisters, do not forget to stop and have a fabulous lunch at the New Leaf Cafe. The cafe is a part of Bette Midler’s NYRP which is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming open space in underserved communities to create a greener, more sustainable New York City. In partnership with the City of New York, NYRP is also leading MillionTreesNYC – an initiative to plant and care for one million new trees throughout New York City’s five boroughs by 2017. All proceeds from the New Leaf Cafe support New York Restoration Project’s mission of turning forgotten spaces into growing places.
While at the Zoo 