Two paintings by artist Pam Skehan, currently on view at Wine Art Gallery in New Orleans, 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, which runs from August 1, 2026, to February 14, 2027, marks the 15th anniversary of the annual juried show presented by The Helis Foundation.
Since its launch in 2012, Louisiana Contemporary has featured work by more than 650 artists, establishing itself as a significant event on the national arts calendar. This year, juror Sarah Jones, Lulu C. and Anthony W. Wang Head of Live Arts at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, selected 50 works by 45 artists from over 1,786 submissions. Skehan's paintings "Woman in Waiting" and "Tipping Point" were among those chosen, highlighting the vitality of artistic practice across Louisiana.
The Ogden Museum, located in the vibrant Arts District of New Orleans, is known for its dedication to Southern art. The Louisiana Contemporary exhibition provides a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work to a wider audience. Skehan's inclusion underscores the growing recognition of local talent within the national arts scene.
Wine Art Gallery, where Skehan's paintings are currently displayed, is committed to supporting emerging artists while honoring New Orleans' rich cultural history. According to the gallery, over 80% of its represented artists are female or from underrepresented backgrounds. The gallery actively seeks new local talent as well as international artists from countries such as Britain, France, and Spain. Located on Julia Street in the Arts District, Wine Art Gallery is part of Gallery Row, a cultural hub anchored by Michelin-starred restaurants Emeril's and Peche.
The selection of Skehan's work for Louisiana Contemporary not only highlights her artistic achievement but also reflects the broader mission of Wine Art Gallery to give voice to diverse artists. The exhibition at the Ogden Museum offers an opportunity for visitors to experience the breadth of creative expression emerging from New Orleans and Louisiana. For more information on the exhibition, visit the Ogden Museum's Louisiana Contemporary page.
The Louisiana Contemporary exhibition continues to be a vital showcase for the state's artistic community, celebrating the unique perspectives and talents that define Louisiana's cultural landscape. Skehan's participation adds to the legacy of the exhibition, which has grown in prominence since its inception.
