Museum exhibit Review and Reflection (3-5 points) - Olivia Liddie

 After being told she was not able to exhibit her full collection in the Smithsonian museums, Amy Sherald moved her collection to the Baltimore Museum of Art. Here she has displayed her entire discography, which focuses on the everyday experience of the average Black American, along with the works that were not able to be displayed in the Smithsonian due to their content which was deemed unacceptable due to Donald Trump's new push for an erasure of "anti-American" and divisive content. 

I had the opportunity to visit this museum exhibit with my family a few weeks ago. After reading up on Sherald I learned that not only is she an AUC alum but a former AUC faculty with close ties to a few Spelman art professors. I was struck by her passion for art and her drive to pursue her craft even if she was not receiving outside reinforcement and praise for her work.

Within the exhibit, her works reflected her beliefs about the Black American experience, as many reflected everyday life. I was struck however by one piece in particular which she titled, "What's precious inside of him does not care to be known by the mind in ways that diminish its presence (All American)." The painting depicts a Black man, wearing a cowboy hat and a collared shirt. The shirt is brandished with the American flag. He is seen facing the audience with both hands rested in his pocket. While he seems like he is meant to portray relaxation his face and stern and serious. His belt buckle is silver and painted on top is a galloping stallion.   

This work strikes me as Sherald seems to be alluding to some type of oxymoron or the belief that the experience of a patriotic Black man is as rare as oil mixing with water. This would be confusing however because she claims to depict the All-American experience. 

It's possible that I am interpreting her work incorrectly but regardless it still strikes me as powerful and awakens many emotions within me. 

I have included the picture I took of the artwork for interpretation as well as an image of me in the exhibit brandishing a book written about Sherald's complete art collection. 

By Olivia Liddie