He works as a security guard at the Met. Now his artwork is featured there too

From Security Guard to Museum Masterpiece: Armia Khalil’s Remarkable Journey

Armia Khalil’s story is a compelling testament to the power of perseverance and the unpredictable nature of life. Arriving in New York City from Egypt in 2006 with a suitcase full of aspirations and only $400 in his pocket, Khalil dreamt of establishing himself as a professional sculptor. Though, the realities of starting anew in a bustling metropolis proved far removed from his initial visions.

“I was so naive,” Khalil admitted, reflecting on those early years. “I didn’t have any plan, just that one-way ticket and my dreams.”

Life’s challenges presented themselves quickly. Sharing a cramped bedroom with construction workers in New Jersey and struggling to find consistent work, khalil found himself at a crossroads. Despite the obstacles, his passion for art never faltered. In 2012, fate intervened when he landed a job as a security guard at the metropolitan Museum of Art.This unexpected opportunity allowed him to immerse himself in the world of art he so deeply admired.

“I was just trying to find any job to make a living as I was in debt,” Khalil explained. “I sent so many emails. I didn’t have any security experience. But this is the Met. I was so happy.”

While the security position provided stability, a deep-seated frustration lingered within Khalil. He yearned to actively create and express himself through art. “I cried within myself inside the gallery many times, wondering why it didn’t work out for me,” he confessed.

Then, in a moment that would change his life forever, khalil had a chance encounter with a visitor while on duty. Unbeknownst to Khalil, that visitor was Akili Tommasino, the Met’s curator.

The Security Guard Whose Sculptures Are Now on Display at the Met

There’s a story hidden in every bustling cityscape, waiting to be discovered.This one centers around Armia Khalil, a security guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, who harbors a secret passion: sculpting. This passion would lead him to an unusual moment when his artwork found its way into a prestigious exhibition, forever changing his ordinary routine.

“It’s amazing,” Khalil exclaimed, his words brimming with the awe of his experience. “That was a real surreal moment for me.”

The exhibit, a celebration of diverse artistic expressions, became Khalil’s unexpected stage. Word spread quickly among visitors about the security guard who had become an accomplished artist.

“Several people told me that thay visited the exhibit specifically to see Khalil’s work,” shared the exhibit curator, hinting at the profound impact Khalil’s art had on viewers.

Now, Khalil stands guard, not only over the exhibition but also over his own creations. “I cried,” Khalil recalled, reliving the first time he saw his artwork displayed alongside others. “Everything flashed in front of me. It was surreal. Keep dreaming. Keep hoping all the time,” he added, his words echoing with the powerful significance of his journey.

The curator, reflecting on this unique situation, said with a lighthearted chuckle, “That is a risk,” when asked about the possibility of losing Khalil as a security guard. This sentiment underscored Khalil’s newfound status, a testament to the transformative power of art to transcend boundaries and ignite recognition.

Armia Khalil,a security guard at the metropolitan Museum of Art,poses with a sculpture he created. January 2025.

CBS News

From Security Guard to Museum Showcase: Armia Khalil’s Inspiring Journey

“It’s amazing,” Khalil exclaimed, his voice filled with awe, “That was a real surreal moment for me.”

It’s a sentiment that rings true for anyone who dares to chase their dreams. Armia Khalil, a security guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, embodies just that. Imagine spending yoru days surrounded by masterpieces, yet yearning to create your own. That’s exactly the reality Armia faced. But it wasn’t a deterrant – it fueled her passion.

malik Jackson, a reporter for Archyde News, sat down with khalil to explore the remarkable journey that lead him from a security post to a featured artist in the prestigious “Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876–” exhibition.”I came to New York City in 2006, full of dreams as an artist,” Khalil shared. “Life took some unexpected turns, and finding steady work was a challenge.” This led him to the Met, where his role as a security guard surrounded him with inspiration every day. “It kept hope alive for me, even when things were tough,” he candidly admitted.

But hope alone isn’t enough. Hard work and perseverance are essential ingredients. Khalil never abandoned his artistic pursuits, even amidst the demanding schedule of his job. “There were times I’d be inside the gallery, and the longing to express myself would be so strong,” he recalled. “I’d think to myself, ‘How can I break into this world?'”

That break came in the form of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Khalil’s dedication and talent culminated in a strikingly powerful sculpture, meticulously carved from a single piece of ash wood.”It took me over five months to carve that sculpture,” Khalil revealed. “It represents a powerful moment for me, a reminder that dreams do come true if you keep pushing forward.”

This evocative piece not only captivated visitors but also caught the eye of akili Tommasino, the museum curator. “My sculpture was purchased by the museum curator, Akili Tommasino,” Khalil shared with a glimmer of pride.

armia Khalil’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that dreams are within reach, no matter how unconventional the path. It’s a reminder that even amidst the mundane, inspiration can bloom and talent can find its rightful place in the spotlight.

A Testament to the Power of Perseverance

“It was surreal.My heart raced like I was caught in a dream. Everything flashed before my eyes. It’s a validation of all the sacrifices, all the challenges I faced. It encourages me and everyone out there to keep dreaming. Keep loving and pursuing your dreams,”

shares Armia Khalil, describing the overwhelming emotion of seeing her work displayed.

This isn’t just a story about artistic achievement; it’s a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary things. Armia’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that dreams,no matter how aspiring,can become reality with unwavering dedication and hard work.

Malik Jackson,captivated by Armia’s story,poses a thought-provoking question: “What dream are you holding onto,and what steps are you taking to make it a reality?”

What steps can someone take to pursue their artistic dreams even while working a demanding job?

From Security Guard to Museum Showcase: Armia Khalil’s Inspiring journey

“It’s amazing,” Khalil exclaimed, his voice filled with awe, “That was a real surreal moment for me.”

It’s a sentiment that rings true for anyone who dares to chase their dreams. Armia Khalil, a security guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, embodies just that. Imagine spending your days surrounded by masterpieces, yet yearning to create your own. That’s exactly the reality Armia faced. But it wasn’t a deterrent – it fueled her passion.

Malik Jackson, a reporter for Archyde News, sat down with Khalil to explore the remarkable journey that lead him from a security post to a featured artist in the prestigious “Flight into Egypt: Black Artists and Ancient Egypt, 1876–” exhibition.“I came to New York City in 2006, full of dreams as an artist,” Khalil shared. “Life took some unexpected turns,and finding steady work was a challenge.” This lead him to the Met, where his role as a security guard surrounded him with inspiration every day. “It kept hope alive for me, even when things were tough,” he candidly admitted.

But hope alone isn’t enough. Hard work and perseverance are essential ingredients. Khalil never abandoned his artistic pursuits,even amidst the demanding schedule of his job. “There were times I’d be inside the gallery, and the longing to express myself would be so strong,” he recalled. “I’d think to myself, ‘How can I break into this world?’”

that break came in the form of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Khalil’s dedication and talent culminated in a strikingly powerful sculpture, meticulously carved from a single piece of ash wood.“It took me over five months to carve that sculpture,” Khalil revealed. “It represents a powerful moment for me, a reminder that dreams do come true if you keep pushing forward.”

This evocative piece not only captivated visitors but also caught the eye of Akili tommasino, the museum curator. “My sculpture was purchased by the museum curator, Akili Tommasino,” Khalil shared with a glimmer of pride.

Armia Khalil’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that dreams are within reach, no matter how unconventional the path. It’s a reminder that even amidst the mundane, inspiration can bloom and talent can find its rightful place in the spotlight.

Malik Jackson, captivated by Armia’s story, poses a thought-provoking question: “What dream are you holding onto, and what steps are you taking to make it a reality?”