Beginnings: The Story of the Creation in the Middle Ages

Exhibition
Manuscript illumination with Jesus and angels presiding over various scenes below.

The Creation of the World from the Stammheim Missal, probably 1170s, German. Getty Museum, Ms. 64, fol. 10v

Creation stories imagine the world’s origins, often leading to a shared cultural vision of identity and values. For medieval Christians, the Biblical story of the seven days of Creation was essential to understanding the natural and spiritual realms, as well as humanity’s role in bridging the two. This exhibition features manuscripts from Getty’s collection alongside select contemporary paintings by LA-based artist Harmonia Rosales to explore how the Creation was visualized, represented, and interpreted both in the Middle Ages and today.

This exhibition is presented in English and Spanish. Esta exhibición se presenta en inglés y en español.

Jan 27–Apr 19, 2026

Getty Center

Museum North Pavillion, Plaza Level

Free

All exhibitions are included in your free, timed-entry reservation to Getty. Reservations are available six weeks in advance. Please note, there is a fee for parking.

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Contact

Media Contact: Sidney Kantono

For press inquiries related to this exhibition, please email skantono@getty.edu