The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has introduced a new initiative, “Town Square AI,” which uses artificial intelligence to provide a unique voice to some of its historic statues. Launched on July 6, 2026, the program allows visitors to engage directly with four centuries-old sculptures located within the museum’s Medieval Galleries.
Through “Town Square AI,” visitors can interact with these ancient artworks by scanning QR codes. This technology facilitates conversations with the sculptures via either voice or text, creating a novel way to experience the museum’s collection. The initiative was developed in collaboration with the technology company Ask Mona.
The four sculptures currently participating in this experience are Mary Magdalene, Saint Augustine, Saint Savina of Troyes, and Balthazar. These figures are now capable of responding to a range of inquiries, including questions about their material composition, origins, the individuals they represent, and their historical context. Beyond art-specific details, the AI can also provide practical information, such as the locations of bathrooms and cafes within the museum.
The “Town Square AI” model was meticulously trained using input from a diverse group of experts, including Met curators, conservators, and specialists from the Medieval department. The content for these AI interactions was led by Associate Curator Shirin Fozi. The system operates as a closed environment, designed to share only validated information that is rooted in the museum’s scientific knowledge.
This project aims to encourage closer observation and spark curiosity among visitors. By offering an alternative channel for accessing the museum’s vast knowledge, “Town Square AI” complements traditional interpretive methods. The initiative is also part of an ongoing effort to revitalize The Met’s Medieval Galleries and establish a more profound connection between visitors and the artworks on display. The experience is made accessible to a broader audience, with interactions available in four languages: English, French, Spanish, and Chinese.