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On any day at the Guggenheim Museum, it’s impossible not to look up at the incredible architectural design by Frank Lloyd Wright. But now when you gaze upward, your eyes will be treated to an extra surprise: a hanging jungle of palm trees, cacti, and other lush plants. Why exactly?
It’s part of a new exhibit by artist Rashid Johnson, titled “A Poem for Deep Thinkers.” True to its name, this vast exhibition taking over the entire museum will indeed make you think about themes of social alienation, escapism, masculinity, parenthood and care for self and others. See it at the Guggenheim through January 18, 2026.
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As curator Naomi Beckwith puts it, Johnson offers “a profound exploration of thought, identity and the transformative power of the artistic imagination.” With more than 90 artworks, including sculptures, photography, video, and experimental installations, “A Poem for Deep Thinkers” is the the largest showing of Johnson’s work yet.
The exhibition begins outside the doors of the museum with a sculpture titled “Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos.” This steel sculpture pulls in gun-scope references and was influenced by hip-hop pioneer Public Enemy; it invites us to question who is in control.
Once inside, it’s clear that Johnson is the one with control of this powerful narrative. His bold artistic vision directs museum-goers through several of his notable series, including “The New Negro Escapist Social and Athletic Club,” “Cosmic Slops,” black-soap shelf paintings, spray-painted text works, and the more recent “Anxious Men” and “Broken Men” series. The Guggenheim presented these works in a loosely chronological fashion, so you can witness the evolution of Johnson’s career thus far.
The artist made 10 new pieces specifically for this exhibition, including a mosaic in the lobby. Continuing up the twisty-turvy ramps of the museum, you’ll encounter video works including “Black Yoga,” several pieces using shea butter as a clay, and a painting series made of black soap and wax. At the very top lies “Sanguine,” a large steel structure consisting of plants, books and a piano. This space will be activated every Friday and Sunday.
“Sanguine” is also the name given to the hanging garden made especially for the Guggenheim. Beckwith calls it “a kind of hanging garden, the most magical one since the days of Babylon.”
The exhibition itself, “A Poem for Deep Thinkers,” takes its title from a poem by Amiri Baraka, an American poet, writer, teacher, and political activist whose work is a frequent source of inspiration for Johnson.
The Guggenheim’s Director Mariët Westermann says the work invites us to, “Come curious. Be ready to be open and astonished.”
“Rashid Johnson: A Poem for Deep Thinkers” is now on view at The Guggenheim Museum on the Upper East Side through January 18, 2026. Now through June 1, you can get $2 off tickets when you buy online in advance. Note: Ticket must be purchased at least one hour in advance of your visit.