The Essence of Michelle Obama

Connie Choi and Hallie Ringle, co-curators of the “Fictions” exhibition on view at the Studio Museum in Harlem, joins host Jenna Flanagan to discuss emerging artist Amy Sherald.

In October 2017, Sherald was selected, by former First Lady Michelle Obama, to paint her official portrait for the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery. Known for her paintings of African-Americans doing everyday things, Sherald’s portrait will be unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery in 2018, where it will be added to the museum’s permanent collection.

Two of Sherald’s works are currently on view in the “Fictions” exhibition (through January 15, 2018). Choi and Ringle shed light on what we may be able to expect of Sherald’s painting of Mrs. Obama.