Two paintings by New Orleans artist Pam Skehan have been selected for the Louisiana Contemporary exhibition at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, marking a significant milestone in the artist's career and highlighting the growing recognition of local talent on a national stage. The exhibition, presented by The Helis Foundation, celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, having featured over 650 artists since its inception in 2012.
Skehan's works, "Woman in Waiting" and "Tipping Point," were chosen by juror Sarah Jones, Lulu C. and Anthony W. Wang Head of Live Arts at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Jones selected 50 works by 45 artists from more than 1,786 submissions, underscoring the competitive nature of the exhibition and the caliber of artistry being produced in Louisiana. The exhibition runs from August 1, 2026, to February 14, 2027, at the Ogden Museum, as detailed on their website.
Currently, the two paintings are on display at Wine Art Gallery, located in the Arts District of New Orleans on Julia Street. The gallery, which represents a diverse mix of local and international artists, is committed to supporting emerging talent and promoting underrepresented voices. According to the gallery, over 80% of their artists are female or from underrepresented backgrounds. Wine Art Gallery's mission is to give back to emerging artists while honoring the unique history of New Orleans, and its location on Gallery Row places it among a vibrant cultural scene anchored by two Michelin-starred restaurants, Emeril's and Peche.
The selection of Skehan's work for Louisiana Contemporary is a testament to the gallery's success in finding and nurturing new talent. The exhibition itself has become a significant event on the national arts calendar, recognizing the breadth of creative voices from New Orleans and across Louisiana. For Skehan, being included in this juried show alongside works selected by a Met curator is a notable achievement that could elevate her profile and bring greater attention to the art scene in the region.
The Louisiana Contemporary exhibition not only celebrates the state's artistic vitality but also provides a platform for artists to gain exposure and connect with a wider audience. With the involvement of the Metropolitan Museum of Art through its juror, the exhibition bridges local talent with international standards of excellence. As the Ogden Museum marks its 15th year of this annual event, the inclusion of Pam Skehan's paintings reinforces the importance of supporting local artists and the role galleries like Wine Art Gallery play in fostering creativity and diversity in the arts.
