Amy Sherald’s portraits capture the beauty and individuality of Black Americans. Her work is now on display at the Whitney Museum in New York City. The exhibition, called “Amy Sherald: American Sublime,” features nearly 50 paintings.
It is the most comprehensive show of her work to date. Sherald became well-known after painting the official portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama in 2017. The portrait shows Obama in a geometric-print gown with her hand resting beneath her chin.
It presents a personal and reflective side of Obama. Another significant piece in the exhibition is Sherald’s portrait of Breonna Taylor. The portrait features Taylor in a flowing blue dress with a small gold cross around her neck.
It highlights both Taylor’s love of fashion and the future that was unjustly taken from her. The exhibition traces the evolution of Sherald’s work over 25 years.
amy Sherald’s artistic journey
It includes American iconography such as a tractor, a beach ball, a toy pony, and a teacup. These objects help craft relatable narratives that illuminate each subject’s unique life experiences. The show also features new works, including “Trans Forming Liberty.” This piece reimagines the Statue of Liberty as a non-binary, trans-femme person.
It challenges traditional symbols of American freedom and acceptance. Curator Rujeko Hockley presented the narrative of Sherald’s progression as an artist during a press preview. Hockley noted Sherald’s journey from working in a small studio in Baltimore to becoming a celebrated artist.
Whitney’s Director Scott Rothkopf added, “She has spoken quite beautifully about how important it was to her to paint people who looked like her and to express their individuality. Each portrait captures unique stories waiting to be discovered.”
The exhibition includes a video showcasing the artist at work in her studio. “Amy Sherald: American Sublime” offers a deeply engaging look at one of America’s most compelling contemporary artists.
The exhibition runs from April 9 to August 10, 2025, at the Whitney Museum in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. Advance reservations are recommended.
