Amy Sherald Lands on Time's 2026 Women of the Year List | Artnet News

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by Sarah Cascone

February 26, 2026

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Amy Sherald has been recognized as one of TIME's 2026 Women of the Year for her bold stance against censorship and her commitment to creating art that celebrates Blackness and promotes empathy. Known for her striking portraits, including the official painting of former First Lady Michelle Obama, Sherald gained national attention when she withdrew a solo exhibition from the National Portrait Gallery (NPG) over concerns about a transgender-inclusive work being replaced with a video containing anti-trans views. Her refusal to compromise on her artistic vision led to record-breaking attendance at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA), which stepped in to host the show, drawing over 70,000 visitors during its run. The controversy centered around Sherald's monumental painting *Trans Forming Liberty* (2024), which features a Black transgender woman inspired by the Statue of Liberty. The artist claimed the NPG wanted to replace the work with a video that included anti-trans narratives, an offer she rejected outright. This decision highlights her dedication to using art as a tool for fostering love and empathy, even in the face of opposition. Sherald's exhibition, *American Sublime*, which debuted at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, traveled to the Whitney Museum of American Art and later to the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, showcasing her ability to inspire diverse audiences. Sherald's work has been celebrated for its unique combination of grayscale tones and vibrant colors, capturing the essence of Black identity and community. Her art not only honors the dignity of Black communities but also brings people together, as noted by BMA director Asma Naeem. The museum's gift shop even ran out of copies of the exhibition catalogue, underscoring the demand for her work. Sherald's success at BMA marked a significant moment in her career, highlighting her enduring impact as an artist with deep roots in her hometown. Represent

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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/26/2026