Let’s dive into Amy Sherald’s ‘Midsummer Afternoon Dream,’ a painting that turns the simplicity of a summer’s day into something truly sublime. Sherald’s use of her signature grisaille technique—where skin tones are painted in shades of gray—creates a striking juxtaposition with the vibrant colors of the clothing and background. This method is reminiscent of the tonal studies in classical portraiture, while her bold palette echoes the vitality found in works by post-Impressionists like Matisse. A delightful detail? Amy’s own dog, George, perches in the bicycle basket, grounding the piece in a sense of personal intimacy and adding a layer of storytelling that feels both timeless and contemporary. The backdrop for this work is Fort Tilden in New York, a place where history and nature intersect. Once a military fort during the 20th century, it now serves as a serene retreat for beachgoers, symbolizing a reclamation of space for leisure and reflection. By combining traditional portrait...