Amy Sherald: Changing Unique Instances in Art | Art21 “Extended Play”
**Amy Sherald: Reimagining Unique Moments in Art**
Amy Sherald, a powerful figure in modern portraiture, is recognized for her unique method that confronts the lack of narrative concerning Black figures in American art. As highlighted in the Art21 “Extended Play” series, Sherald’s creations resonate through their moving depiction of everyday individuals set against vivid, dreamlike backgrounds, generating transformative unique moments that encapsulate her subjects’ humanity and elegance.
Hailing from Columbus, Georgia, Sherald was raised in the South, steeped in cultural stories that later influenced her artistic dialogue. She completed her formal art education with an MFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art and refined her craft through a series of esteemed residencies. Each stage of her journey expanded her comprehension of portraiture’s distinct ability to honor subjects historically overlooked in visual culture.
Sherald’s portraits are immediately identifiable by their grayscale representations of skin. This deliberate choice serves as an equalizing factor, dissociating race from identity and urging the viewer to concentrate on the individual’s presence and essence. Lively clothing and playful backgrounds further distinguish the figures, inviting reflection on the ordinary moments that characterize human existence.
A pivotal moment in her career occurred when she was chosen to create the portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in 2018. This assignment propelled Sherald to global recognition, situating her work within a broader cultural and political framework. The portrait was lauded not only for its visual excellence but also for affirming Sherald’s objective to represent Black individuals in art with complexity, depth, and dignity.
In the Art21 “Extended Play” series, Sherald elaborates on her creative process, revealing that each artwork starts with thorough research and a profound connection with her subjects. The closeness she builds is evident in the serene dignity and grace captured in her paintings. Sherald photographs her subjects in diverse poses, choosing images that convey a narrative of resilience, grace, and genuineness.
Beyond mere technique, Sherald’s creations encourage viewers to re-evaluate narratives of identity and representation. Her artworks promote contemplation, interaction, and discussion, framing her art not just as a visual encounter but as a spark for societal introspection.
Sherald’s work reflects a dedication to seizing unique moments that, through their particularity, resonate with universal themes of identity, empowerment, and human connection. Her art serves as a testament to her vision and commitment to redefining contemporary portraiture by infusing each canvas with intricate layers of storytelling and significance. Her legacy continues to advance as she challenges limits, ensuring that her subjects are acknowledged, remembered, and honored in the story of art history.