Atlanta, Georgia, September 25, 2025
News Summary
The High Museum of Art in Atlanta will host Amy Sherald’s exhibition ‘American Sublime’ from May 15 to September 27, showcasing 40 paintings including her notable portrait of Michelle Obama. Initially slated for the Smithsonian, the exhibition focuses on themes such as censorship and the representation of Black Americans. Following its Atlanta display, ‘American Sublime’ will tour additional museums, sparking dialogue around vital social issues.
Atlanta, Georgia – Amy Sherald’s highly anticipated exhibition “American Sublime” will be hosted by the High Museum of Art from May 15 to September 27, 2026. This announcement was made by High Museum director Rand Suffolk during the David Driskell Prize gala on September 20, an event honoring the esteemed artist Alison Saar.
Sherald, a Georgia native and a graduate of Clark Atlanta University, is celebrated for her contribution to contemporary portraiture. Notably, she received the Driskell Prize in 2018. The High Museum will showcase approximately 40 paintings created between 2007 and 2024, including Sherald’s acclaimed portrait of Michelle Obama.
The museum expressed pride in presenting Sherald’s work, underlining the significance of her art within the Atlanta community. Prior to its showing in Atlanta, “American Sublime” was initially scheduled at the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery but was withdrawn by Sherald due to concerns regarding censorship related to her painting “Trans Forming Liberty.”
“Trans Forming Liberty” depicts a Black trans woman styled akin to the Statue of Liberty, which faced scrutiny from the Smithsonian concerning its exhibition. Sherald’s decision to withdraw arose from her beliefs about institutional fear and political hostility towards trans lives. While the Smithsonian acknowledged the inability to reach an agreement with Sherald, they voiced appreciation for her commitment to portraiture.
Following the cancellation at the Smithsonian, the Baltimore Museum of Art declared it would also host “American Sublime.” This exhibition is structured as a mid-career retrospective, showcasing Sherald’s diverse contributions to American realism and focusing particularly on the representation of Black Americans. Following its premiere at the High Museum, “American Sublime” is scheduled to tour at least four museums after having initially comprised three stops.
Including “American Sublime,” the High Museum’s 2025-26 exhibition schedule will feature works by Ralph Eugene Meatyard, Isamu Noguchi, Viktor&Rolf, and Minnie Evans. Throughout her career, Sherald has highlighted the impact of censorship and the vital role of portraiture in empowering marginalized lives through her work.
Exhibition Overview
- Title: American Sublime
- Location: High Museum of Art, Atlanta, Georgia
- Duration: May 15 – September 27, 2026
- Key Works: 40 paintings, including the portrait of Michelle Obama
- Background: Initially scheduled at Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery
- Notable Themes: Representation of Black Americans, censorship, empowerment through portraiture
Impact and Significance
Amy Sherald’s “American Sublime” is not only an exhibition of significant artworks but also a bridge to dialogue around important social issues affecting marginalized communities. Scheduled to tour at least four museums following its Atlanta showing, it is anticipated to generate considerable interest and further discussions about the implications of art in societal context.
FAQ
When will Amy Sherald’s “American Sublime” exhibition take place?
The exhibition will be presented at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Georgia, from May 15 to September 27, 2026.
What is the significance of this exhibition?
“American Sublime” is a mid-career retrospective that includes Sherald’s diverse contributions to American realism, focusing particularly on representing Black Americans.
Why was the exhibition moved from the Smithsonian?
The exhibition was withdrawn by Sherald due to censorship concerns regarding her painting “Trans Forming Liberty,” which faced scrutiny from the Smithsonian.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Exhibition Title | American Sublime |
| Location | High Museum of Art, Atlanta, Georgia |
| Date | May 15 – September 27, 2026 |
| Exhibition Focus | Representation of Black Americans, Censorship, Empowerment |
| Notable Works | Portrait of Michelle Obama, 40 paintings total |
| Additional Museums | Baltimore Museum of Art, others TBD |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Culture Type: Amy Sherald Exhibition
- Atlanta News First: Acclaimed Artist Cancels Smithsonian Show
- AJC: Artist Cites Censorship Concerns
- Wikipedia: Amy Sherald
- New York Times: Amy Sherald at Whitney
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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