The presence of nostalgia in popular culture has been rapidly increasing as of late, and some would even go so far as to call it “trendy.” Now on display at The Met, “Don’t Forget to Call Your Mother” perfectly taps into our love for nostalgia.  

We live in an age where photographs are taken, shared, and saved digitally, leading many artists to return to an older photographic medium: physical snapshots. Consisting of work from The Met collection that dates all the way back to the 1970s and continues into today, “Don’t Forget to Call Your Mother” calls for audiences to reflect upon their own relationship with nostalgia and sentimentality.  

Featuring work from artists like Sadie Barnette, Larry Sultan, Taryn Simon, Darrel Ellis, and Hank Willis Thomas, the exhibition explores moments from the past, including images of a forgotten Black-owned gay bar, and examines the power of family legacy. “Don’t Forget to Call Your Mother” leaves a lasting impact on visitors, and will make you want to call those you love.  

The exhibition runs through September 15th at The Met Fifth Avenue, Gallery 851. Tickets are free with The Met’s “pay what you wish” admission policy. Plan your visit here.