Amy Sherald's Mural Philadelphia
5 stories of elegant power
Philadelphia is a city of murals, thanks in large part to the vision of Mural Arts Philadelphia and its founder, Jane Golden. Her crusade to fight graffiti started in the 80s and over the decades has grown into a national model for community and public art.
Her organization has also attracted colossal talents and helped create dazzling beauties like this untitled one by uber-cool portraitist Amy Sherald. If Sherald’s style of black and white with color looks familiar, it may be because you’ve seen the official portrait of Michelle Obama she was commissioned to paint, which hangs at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington.
I’ve read that Sherald’s paintings are best seen in person, and that holds true for me, even on this huge scale. I saw images of the work in progress in my Instagram feed, where the bright blue and yellow popped, but it was only in person that I understood its true power.
The mural is five stories high! Seeing its subject, a young Philadelphia student, in the context of the skyline, is a revelation! This everyday young woman is a tower of power among the city’s skyscrapers, an elegant marvel claiming her rightful place in her city. Oh, that gaze.
I hope you like her as much as I do. There are other excellent murals in the vicinity. Check out Mural Arts' website and interactive map, and take a public art safari. Though this may be my favorite of all of them.
Explore cities like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Philadelphia guide.
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Philadelphia
Fabric Workshop and Museum – Contemporary art
The "Fabric Workshop and Museum" in Philadelphia is one of the best places to see contemporary art - it's a central overlooks gem!
By
Andrea
Szyper
Material Culture – Anthropology museum or shop?
"Material Culture" in Philadelphia isn't just a store. It is a world. A global journey. An aesthetic trek through history & cultures...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Duross & Langel – Good clean fun
"Duross & Langel" is a Philadelphia soap shop. Scented with fruit and herbs, I'm afraid they're works of art almost too beautiful to use in the shower...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Laurel Hill Cemetery – I see dead people
"Laurel Hill Cemetery" in Philadelphia is equal parts public garden, sculpture park, historical campus and graveyard. It's a truly special spot...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Penn Museum of Anthropology – Mummies and more
The "Penn Museum of Anthropology" in Philadelphia would be a marquee attraction in a smaller town. Don't overlook this jewel and its collections, trust me.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Woodmere Art Museum – Home to Philadelphia artists
The "Woodmere Art Museum" and its mansion tell the story of Philadelphia and its artists from the 1800s to now. Don't miss its gift shop or back gallery!
By
Andrea
Szyper
Greene Street Consignment – Fashion-forward fun
"Greene Street Consignment" in Philadelphia makes it easy to find great pieces on their tidy, colorful shelves. My recommendation: check the clearance racks!
By
Andrea
Szyper
Simeone Foundation – The cool car museum
The "Simeone Foundation" Philadelphia is one of the finest private collections of classic cars in the US. This out-of-the-way treasure is a must see...
By
Andrea
Szyper
Hokka Hokka – Too pretty to eat
"Hokka Hokka" in Philadelphia is the sushi bar/restaurant my husband and I start so many of our dates. This balance of tasty and beauty is something else.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Tria – Beer, wine, and cheese Nirvana
"Tria" Philadelphia is my favorite sophisticated yet cozy bar to explore the divine trinity of wine, beer and cheese. Perhaps my favorite is Sunday School.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Night Kitchen – The best bakery in Chestnut Hill
How "Night Kitchen" get its cinnamon rolls to absorb so much butter is one of the great mysteries of Philadelphia. It's my favorite bakery in Chestnut Hill.
By
Andrea
Szyper
Solar Myth – Adventurous Jazz Bar
Besides the packed schedule of shows, they are also a daytime coffee shop that opens its bar at noon. They have a great (rotating) wine selection as well!
By