Amy Sherald: A Visionary American Painter

When Amy Sherald was chosen to create the official portrait of Michelle Obama nine years ago, her name wasn’t widely recognized in the art world. That has changed. At age 52, Sherald is celebrated as one of America’s leading painters, having had three major museum retrospectives last year. However, another exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery made news when Sherald canceled it, concerned about potential censorship due to pressure from the Trump administration.

In her art, Sherald portrays Black Americans with striking presence. Her subjects look directly at the viewer from the canvas, with an unflinching yet compelling gaze. They stand unapologetically amidst backgrounds that are either monochromatic or vibrantly colorful. One of Sherald’s paintings features a farmer on a pristine John Deere tractor surrounded by blue skies and lush grass.

Anderson Cooper: In many of your paintings, the subject is looking directly at the viewer.

Amy Sherald: That’s important. These portraits aren’t confrontational, but they demand presence. They invite you to engage.

Her works often transcend typical portraiture. Although the people depicted are real, their identities within Sherald’s paintings are part of a unique narrative.

The creation process starts with photographs. She encounters individuals whose energy resonates with her, either by chance or design. These encounters lead to a photographic session where Sherald visualizes the essence of her painting.

Her subjects range from friends and models to strangers. Their attire is frequently sourced from thrift stores, waiting for the right portrait moment.

Notably, Sherald has depicted Breonna Taylor and celebrated her portrait of Michelle Obama. These works are poignant and recognized globally.

Anderson Cooper: Did you realize the significance of the Michelle Obama portrait?

Amy Sherald: Yes, but in the moment, I focused on the painting, not on its impact.

Sherald’s style is defined as American Realism, a technique illustrating everyday American life. Her work revises classic American themes, ensuring inclusivity.

Sarah Roberts: Amy’s paintings redefine Americana, creating images that represent America’s current identity, emphasizing freedom and expression.

A pivotal moment occurred when Sherald saw a painting featuring a Black man during a class trip as a teenager, inspiring her artistic journey.

Amy Sherald: Seeing Black individuals in art was transformative. I wanted to pursue this path.

She navigated challenges, including a major heart condition diagnosed in 2004 and a heart transplant in 2012 at 39. Her donor, Kristin Lin Smith, influences her work and life.

Amy Sherald: I honor Kristin with every piece, her heart lives through my art.

Sherald’s studio in New Jersey is where she crafts her distinctive grayscale portraits, offering viewers a unique lens to experience her subjects’ humanity.

Her works have garnered substantial attention and financial value, aligning her with American Realism icons like Edward Hopper.

Anderson Cooper: How do you feel being compared to the masters?

Amy Sherald: It’s rewarding; it’s what I’ve aimed for as a Black female artist in America.

Sherald recently withdrew from a Smithsonian exhibition under censorship fears but found new opportunities. Her studio exhibits in museums like The Baltimore Museum of Art and the High Museum in Atlanta.

Her paintings are deeply patriotic, affirming the role and contributions of Black Americans in shaping the nation.

Anderson Cooper: How do you perceive your work’s patriotism?

Amy Sherald: Black Americans are integral to this country’s fabric. Our patriotism is inherent.