The High Museum of Art in Atlanta will host a solo exhibition by celebrated artist Amy Sherald, titled "Amy Sherald: The World We Make." The exhibition is scheduled to run from May 15 to September 27. This show gained significant national attention after Sherald withdrew it from the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., citing concerns about censorship.
Sherald, a Georgia native, is widely recognized for her distinctive portraiture. Her work often features Black subjects against vibrant, monochromatic backgrounds. This style became prominent when she painted the official portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama in 2018, which is displayed at the National Portrait Gallery.
Key Takeaways
- Amy Sherald's solo exhibition, "The World We Make," will be shown at the High Museum of Art.
- The exhibition runs from May 15 to September 27 in Atlanta.
- Sherald previously withdrew the show from the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery due to censorship concerns.
- This marks a significant opportunity for Atlanta audiences to view the full collection.
Exhibition's Journey and Controversy
The decision by Amy Sherald to remove her exhibition from the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery generated widespread media discussion. Reports indicated that Sherald expressed concerns over the gallery's handling of her work. This led to the cancellation of the planned Washington, D.C., showing.
According to a letter Sherald published in The New York Times, she explained her rationale to Lonnie G. Bunch III, the Secretary of the Smithsonian. Sherald stated that she could not compromise the integrity of her artwork. She believed the Smithsonian's actions would have altered her message and created an erasure of her presence.
"My artwork always carries a subtle presence of visibility. When that is altered, even subtly, I cannot consent. I would not have been featured in the first contemporary Black artist exhibition ever planned at the National Portrait Gallery where my planned show was to be shown, but for that visibility."
Sherald's statement highlighted her commitment to artistic freedom and the authentic representation of her vision. The controversy underscored broader discussions about institutional control versus artistic expression within major cultural organizations.
Interesting Fact
Amy Sherald’s portrait of Michelle Obama was unveiled at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery on February 12, 2018. It quickly became one of the most popular artworks in the gallery's collection, drawing millions of visitors.
The High Museum's Role and Sherald's Impact
The High Museum of Art stepped in to host the full exhibition, offering Atlanta a chance to see the collection as the artist intended. This move is a major win for the museum and for art enthusiasts in the region. Randall Suffolk, the High Museum's director, emphasized the significance of bringing Sherald's work to Atlanta.
"We're so strongly connected with this artist, whose work really resonates with our community," Suffolk said. "We are proud to be celebrating an artist who will now engage deeply with our audience."
Sherald's art has a strong connection to Georgia. She is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University and Spelman College. Her roots in the state add a layer of familiarity and excitement for local audiences. The High Museum has a history of showcasing important American artists, and Sherald's exhibition fits this tradition.
Showcasing Diverse Perspectives
Sherald's work frequently explores themes of identity, race, and the human experience. Her portraits challenge traditional narratives by presenting Black individuals in everyday settings, often with a sense of dignity and introspection. The figures in her paintings are rendered in grayscale, a distinctive artistic choice that allows viewers to focus on their inner lives rather than external color.
The exhibition will feature several important works. These include "Deliverance" (2022) and "The Giants" (2024). Some of these pieces are part of The Dean Collection, owned by musicians Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys. Another notable work is a portrait of Alicia Keys herself, which was featured in the 2022 exhibition "Alicia Keys: The Portrait Session."
Background on the Controversy
The National Portrait Gallery dispute involved a painting titled "TransAmerican," which depicts a Black man wearing a pink satin gown, holding a bouquet of blue flowers. This painting sparked controversy when it was reported that the Smithsonian requested changes to it. Sherald argued that such requests constituted censorship and compromised her artistic integrity. The painting was inspired by a performance artist named Awol Erizku and his series "The Statue of Liberty (Basquiat)."
Amy Sherald's Growing Recognition
Amy Sherald's profile has risen significantly in recent years. Beyond her portrait of Michelle Obama, she won the 2018 David C. Driskell Prize, an award given by the High Museum of Art. This prize recognizes contributions to the field of African American art.
Her work has been exhibited at various prestigious institutions. These include the Contemporary Art Museum of Baltimore, the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth. The High Museum exhibition marks her fourth solo show to tour nationally.
- April 2, 2022: Exhibition opens at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.
- July 16, 2022: Exhibition moves to the Whitney Museum of American Art, New York.
- November 5, 2022: Exhibition opens at the Contemporary Art Museum of Baltimore.
- May 15, 2023: Exhibition arrives at the High Museum of Art, Atlanta.
This extensive tour highlights the demand for Sherald's art and her growing influence in the contemporary art world. Her ability to create deeply personal yet universally resonant portraits has solidified her position as a leading voice in American art.
The exhibition provides a crucial platform for Sherald to share her uncompromised vision with a broad audience. It also allows the public to engage with art that reflects important cultural dialogues. The High Museum's commitment to presenting this exhibition underscores the value of artistic independence.
Artist's Perspective
When discussing her work, Sherald has stated, "I’m the same person I was before." This reflects her consistent approach to art-making, regardless of her increased fame or public scrutiny.
The exhibition offers a deep dive into Sherald's artistic practice, showcasing her unique ability to capture the essence of her subjects. Visitors will have the opportunity to see a range of her portraits, exploring the themes and techniques that define her distinctive style.
The High Museum expects a significant turnout for "Amy Sherald: The World We Make." This exhibition is not just a display of paintings; it is a statement about artistic integrity and the power of visual storytelling in challenging times.