Madonna (Self-Portrait)Cindy Sherman · 1975

  • Creation date1975
  • MuseumSCAD Museum of Art

Cindy Sherman (1954 –)

Explore the transformative self-portraits of Cindy Sherman, a pivotal American photographer. Deconstructing identity & gender through iconic series like 'Untitled Film Stills,' she challenges representation in art and media.

SCAD Museum of Art (Savannah, United States of America)

Explore contemporary art & design at SCAD Museum of Art in Savannah! Discover fashion, photography, African American art, and more within a historic Greek Revival building. A unique learning experience.

For most of her career, Cindy Sherman turned the camera on herself, building a catalogue of self-portraits that engage an array of clich�d female archetypes from the tearful innocent to the celebrity starlet. In this black-and-white portrait, Sherman plays the role of the Madonna. Although she is shrouded in a white veil like a classically rendered religious figure, Sherman?s elongated eye lashes, accentuated lips and pomaded dual horn-like curls peaking out from beneath her veil play with the traditional historic depiction. Her stylized image could be a reference to the ?new woman? of the 1920s whose liberated views on sexuality are in direct opposition to the virginal, biblical Madonna. Reprinted in the 1990s, the portrait may also be considered a reference to the contemporary and controversial pop singer of the same name.

About this artwork

  • Title: Madonna (Self-Portrait)
  • Artist: Cindy Sherman
  • Year: 1975
  • Format: Portrait
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Where to see it: SCAD Museum of Art
  • Color hue: Green to Violet Spectrum
  • Perceived brightness: brilliant

Questions & Answers

What is the dominant color of "Madonna (Self-Portrait)" by Cindy Sherman?

putty (#e4e4e4) is the leading color of "Madonna (Self-Portrait)" by Cindy Sherman.

At what age did Cindy Sherman make "Madonna (Self-Portrait)"?

Cindy Sherman was 21 years old when creating "Madonna (Self-Portrait)" in 1975. The age is computed from the artist's birth year, 1954.

Who is the artist behind "Madonna (Self-Portrait)"?

"Madonna (Self-Portrait)" is attributed to Cindy Sherman.

Who made "Madonna (Self-Portrait)", and when?

"Madonna (Self-Portrait)" was created by Cindy Sherman in 1975.

What color harmony does "Madonna (Self-Portrait)" by Cindy Sherman display?

The color harmony of "Madonna (Self-Portrait)" is recorded as discordant palette.

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