Amy Sherald is renowned for her groundbreaking 2018 portrait of Michelle LaVaughn Robinson Obama, but few know about the artist’s extensive body of work before this masterpiece. Her latest mid-career survey at the Whitney Museum, “American Sublime,” showcases five powerful portraits of Black subjects that leave viewers in awe.
The exhibition begins with a striking curved wall featuring these sentinels, which evoke an army of terra-cotta warriors. Sherald’s artistry is not limited to this singular work; instead, it highlights her lifetime dedication to representation and legacy.
Born at 37, after leaving her waitressing job, Sherald spent decades honing her craft before achieving overnight success with the Obama portrait. This new exhibition demonstrates her remarkable journey, from obscurity to international acclaim, solidifying her position as a leading voice in contemporary art.
Source: https://www.vulture.com/article/the-wary-gaze-of-amy-sherald.html