Precious jewels by the sea 2019

Curator: This is Amy Sherald’s "Precious jewels by the sea," created in 2019. Sherald, a prominent contemporary artist, often portrays African Americans in scenes of everyday life, subtly challenging art historical norms. Editor: It's visually striking! The subjects' greyscale skin against the bright, almost hyperreal, beach scene creates a powerful contrast. The composition is wonderfully balanced, almost symmetrical, yet it feels spontaneous. Curator: Precisely. Sherald is known for her masterful use of greyscale in her portraits, which, arguably, disconnects her subjects from racial stereotypes prevalent in historical portraiture and the media. In many ways, she asserts their humanity. Note also how this piece situates them in an outdoor leisure space that was not always safely accessible to people of color. Editor: Yes, and formally, the flattening effect created by the almost pastel-like palette and limited shading intensifies the dreamlike quality. The solid blocks of color on their clothing pop against the figures' muted skin, emphasizing the contemporary fashion, the now. There's something incredibly powerful in that juxtaposition. Curator: Absolutely. Placing contemporary figures within established painterly traditions invites conversations about race, representation, and the role of African Americans in shaping American culture. Consider that this work invites questions about social visibility, particularly how people of color see themselves, as well as how society views them. Editor: There's a wonderful interplay of geometries. The curve of the parasol opposes the straight, vertical lines of the figures. These contrasting forms draw the eye to different focal points, enriching the visual experience. Plus, these muted tones give the artwork a distinctive mood that captivates attention through composition and content. Curator: I would only add that considering the historical lack of diverse representations, these nuances, the social interactions, help foster greater societal representation in the art world. The painting pushes the viewer to imagine a more equal future and is quite striking. Editor: I agree! The harmony and contrasts give it a unique resonance, indeed.