Two paintings by New Orleans-based 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 underscoring the vitality of Louisiana's art scene. The works, "Woman in Waiting" and "Tipping Point," are currently on view at Wine Art Gallery in New Orleans' Arts District.
Louisiana Contemporary, presented by The Helis Foundation, launched in 2012 as an annual juried exhibition celebrating artists living in Louisiana. Now in its 15th year, the exhibition has showcased over 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 more than 1,786 submissions.
The selection of Skehan's work by a curator from The Metropolitan Museum of Art highlights the growing recognition of Louisiana's artistic community. The Ogden Museum's exhibition provides a platform for artists from across the state, and being chosen for the 15th anniversary edition carries particular prestige. The inclusion of Skehan's paintings in this juried show not only validates her artistic merit but also draws attention to the vibrant art scene in New Orleans and beyond.
Wine Art Gallery, where Skehan's paintings are currently displayed, describes its mission as giving back to emerging artists while honoring New Orleans' storied history. The gallery actively seeks new local talent and international artists, with over 80% of its represented artists being female or underrepresented. "Wine Art Gallery is a diverse mixture of local artists, British artists, French artists, and Spanish artists," the gallery states, emphasizing its role in fostering a rich cultural exchange. Located on Julia Street in the Arts District, the gallery anchors a neighborhood known for its cultural institutions, including Michelin-starred restaurants Emeril's and Peche.
The selection of Skehan's work for Louisiana Contemporary underscores the importance of supporting emerging artists and the role galleries like Wine Art Gallery play in nurturing talent. As the exhibition runs from August 1, 2026, to February 14, 2027, at the Ogden Museum, it offers a significant opportunity for Skehan to reach a wider audience and for collectors and art enthusiasts to experience the breadth of contemporary art in Louisiana.
