Pam Skehan's paintings Woman in Waiting and Tipping Point, currently on view at Wine Art Gallery, have been selected by curators from The Metropolitan Museum of Art for the Louisiana Contemporary exhibition at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The exhibition, presented by The Helis Foundation, marks its 15th anniversary this year, celebrating the vitality of artistic practice across Louisiana.
Juror Sarah Jones, the Lulu C. and Anthony W. Wang Head of Live Arts at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, chose 50 works by 45 artists from over 1,786 submissions. The inclusion of Skehan's pieces underscores the exhibition's commitment to showcasing diverse voices, as Wine Art Gallery reports that over 80% of its represented artists are female or underrepresented.
Wine Art Gallery, located on Gallery Row in New Orleans' Arts District, aims to give back to emerging artists while honoring the city's storied history. The gallery actively seeks local and international talent, providing a platform for those who may not otherwise have one. Its diverse roster includes artists from Louisiana, Britain, France, and Spain.
The Louisiana Contemporary exhibition runs from August 1, 2026, to February 14, 2027, at the Ogden Museum. Since its inception in 2012, the exhibition has featured work by more than 650 artists, establishing itself as a significant event on the national arts calendar. This year's selection by a Met Museum curator further elevates the exhibition's profile, emphasizing the importance of regional art in a global context.
Skehan's selection is particularly notable given the competitive nature of the juried process. Her paintings, which explore themes of waiting and tipping points, resonate with the exhibition's focus on contemporary issues and personal narratives. The recognition from a major institution like the Met validates the quality and relevance of her work.
For the arts community in New Orleans and beyond, this announcement highlights the ongoing vibrancy of Louisiana's art scene. It also reinforces the role of galleries like Wine Art Gallery in nurturing talent and bringing underrepresented artists to the forefront. As the exhibition prepares to open, it promises to offer a compelling snapshot of the state's creative energy.
