Amy Sherald: Seizing Unique Moments in Art | Art21 “Extended Play”
Amy Sherald: Seizing Unique Moments in Art
Amy Sherald is a notable presence in contemporary art, recognized for her distinctive style in portraiture that reinterprets and reshapes narratives around identity and representation. Most famously associated with her portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama, Sherald’s creations encapsulate unique moments through a distinctive perspective, reflecting her profound connection to her subjects and their narratives. Her engagement with Art21’s “Extended Play” series provides an enlightening view into her artistic methodology and beliefs.
Born in 1973 in Columbus, Georgia, Sherald nurtured her artistic passion from a young age and ultimately achieved her MFA from the Maryland Institute College of Art. Over her career, she has dedicated herself to portraying the African American experience, illuminating the intricacies and variety of Black identity. Her portraits are characterized by their monochromatic skin tones, typically in various shades of gray, set against vibrant, colorful backdrops. This stylistic decision effectively neutralizes race, inviting the viewer to engage with the subject free of bias or preconceived ideas.
In her Art21 “Extended Play” feature, Sherald addresses the importance of ordinary moments in her art. She highlights the value of capturing individuals in serene, reflective states—instances that might typically be overlooked. This method allows her to depict her subjects with respect and introspection, honoring everyday life. Sherald’s technique includes first photographing her subjects and often involving them in conversation to ensure their comfort and authenticity before translating them into paint.
Sherald’s portraits are not merely visually captivating but also encompass significant social commentary. Her work regularly delves into themes of individuality, community, and the historical backdrop of Black life in America. By selecting everyday individuals as her focus, she raises personal narratives that are often disregarded in conventional portraiture. These representations provide an alternative narrative to mainstream portrayals, offering viewers a chance to contemplate societal depictions and cultural visibility.
A key project showcased in the Art21 series is Sherald’s participation in the Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition, where she was awarded first prize in 2016. Her winning piece, “Miss Everything (Unsuppressed Deliverance),” features a young African American girl in a playful dress looking sideways while holding a bouquet of flowers. This work embodies Sherald’s signature approach—imbuing ordinary scenes with dignity and depth.
Sherald’s creations extend beyond mere static images; her portraits possess a narrative essence, alluding to the wider stories and histories inherent in each subject. Her collaboration with Art21 offers a rich context for her practice, illustrating how she navigates the art sphere as a prominent figure in contemporary portraiture. Her art continues to motivate and challenge viewpoints, encouraging audiences to engage more deeply with her subjects.
In conclusion, Amy Sherald is a transformative artist capturing unique, reflective moments that convey profound messages about identity, dignity, and the human spirit. Through her partnership with Art21 in the “Extended Play” series, viewers are provided with a richer understanding of her artistic journey and her role in reshaping modern portraiture.