Amy Sherald on "Ecclesia," her most ambitious work yet
60 Minutes·2025-10-19 22:56

Artist Focus - Amy Sherald paints portraits of Black Americans in American realism style, known for her portrait of Michelle Obama [1] - Sherald's work is displayed in prestigious museums and private collections [3] - Sherald reflects on legacy and how her work will live in the world [2] - At 52 years old, Sherald feels like she is starting over, both exciting and terrifying [7] Artistic Style and Technique - Sherald's "Ecclesia" was a centerpiece at the Whitney Museum of American Art [4] - Sherald aims to capture something that will captivate generations [2] - Sherald describes her artistic process as natural as breathing, knowing what colors will evoke emotion and power [9] - Sherald's work has an optimism, referencing Teletubbies and other sources of happiness [10][11][12] - Sherald's vision presents a perfect, pristine, and vibrant image [13] Exhibition and Impact - Sherald's show at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art featured "Ecclesia" [5] - The luminescent quality of Sherald's paintings is hard to capture on camera; it's best experienced in person [8] - The viewer engages with the person in the painting, locking eyes and creating a connection [8]