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Artist Cancels Smithsonian Show Over Censorship Concerns

7/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Artist Amy Sherald has made the bold decision to cancel her exhibition, "American Sublime," at the Smithsonian, citing fears of censorship surrounding her powerful painting of a transgender woman as the Statue of Liberty. Sherald's choice underscores the urgent need for trans visibility in art, leaving the Smithsonian expressing deep disappointment over her withdrawal.

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Story summary

Artist Amy Sherald has made the bold decision to cancel her exhibition, "American Sublime," at the Smithsonian, citing fears of censorship surrounding her powerful painting of a transgender woman as the Statue of Liberty. Sherald's choice underscores the urgent need for trans visibility in art, leaving the Smithsonian expressing deep disappointment over her withdrawal.