St. Louis, MO — The Contemporary Art Museum has seen an influx of visitors this summer -- almost 2000 more than this time last year. And they have all come to see the work of artist Amy Sherald, whose name skyrocketed to fame just a few months ago.
Michelle Obama selected Sherald to paint her official portrait. In February, Sherald unveiled the painting, making her the first female African American artist to paint an official presidential portrait.
"For us, it was really exciting because we had been in touch with Amy before that," says Misa Jefferies, assistant curator of the museum.
While Sherald may be best known for her painting of one of the world's most famous women, she has made her mark on the art world portraying far less recognizable individuals.
She meets her subjects in line at the grocery store or out walking in her hometown of Baltimore, but all are African American.
"For our local audience to see people who look like them or see people who look like Amy up on the walls has been a new experience for many people," says Jefferies.
While some visitors have been to the CAM before, the paintings have also captured the interest of new audiences.
"People who have never been in to an art museum have come to see Amy's work," says Jefferies. "We're really excited to welcome them back to the museum."
Sherald's exhibition will remain at the museum through Sunday, August 19.
Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis
3750 Washington Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63108
