Amy Sherald’s ‘Trans Forming Liberty’ Sparks Debate and Finds New Home After Smithsonian Controversy

Amy Sherald, known for her iconic portraits that challenge conventional narratives about identity, recently completed a painting titled ‘Trans Forming Liberty.’ The work features a majestic figure—modeled after a transgender activist—embodying the Statue of Liberty. Sherald’s goal, according to statements made during previous interviews, was to “expand the iconography of American freedom to include transgender people as essential to the nation’s story” .

The painting was scheduled to debut at the National Portrait Gallery (part of the Smithsonian Institution) in Washington, D.C., as part of a broader exhibition on contemporary American identity. However, in July 2025, Sherald unexpectedly withdrew ‘Trans Forming Liberty’ and several other works from the show. According to reporting by The Advocate, the cancellation stemmed from “disagreements about the painting” between the artist and Smithsonian officials. While specifics were not fully disclosed by either party, sources close to Sherald cite concerns about how the painting would be contextualized and whether the National Portrait Gallery would provide sufficient support for the transgender community in response to anticipated backlash .

In a brief statement, Sherald emphasized her commitment to “ensuring that the message of this work is not diluted or misrepresented, particularly at a time when transgender rights are under attack nationwide” .

The withdrawal of ‘Trans Forming Liberty’ quickly became a national news story, with LGBTQ+ advocates expressing disappointment and concern over what they described as a missed opportunity for institutional leadership. Several organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign and the National Center for Transgender Equality, released statements underscoring the importance of high-profile representation of transgender people in American art and culture. “Art has always played a role in shaping the public’s understanding of marginalized communities,” said a spokesperson for the National Center for Transgender Equality, “and pulling this painting sends the wrong message at a critical moment” .

Opponents of the painting, including some conservative commentators and organizations, claimed the work was “politicizing a national symbol,” while others accused the Smithsonian of “capitulating to controversy” by failing to stand by Sherald’s vision. The debate played out across news outlets and social media, often reflecting broader national tensions over transgender rights and freedom of expression .

In early September 2025, the Baltimore Museum of Art announced that it would host ‘Trans Forming Liberty’ as the centerpiece of a new exhibition focused on the evolving meanings of American symbols. The museum’s director, Asma Naeem, confirmed that Sherald’s painting would be accompanied by programming developed in consultation with local and national LGBTQ+ organizations to ensure an affirming and safe environment for viewers .