Abode Above Interiors

View Original

Moments of Inspiration: A Special Edition Color Palette Celebrating Amy Sherald and Black Artistry

Some art stops you in your tracks, and Amy Sherald’s She was learning to love moments, to love moments for themselves is one of those pieces. Its balance of soft greys and bold, vibrant hues creates a visual harmony that feels both grounding and celebratory—just like life’s most meaningful moments. Inspired by this incredible work, we’ve curated the "Moments" color palette: a special edition collection honoring Sherald’s artistry and celebrating Black History Month. This palette brings together serene neutrals and energetic pops of color, designed to transform your space into one that tells a story, sparks emotion, and honors the rich legacy of Black artistry.

I still remember the first time I saw Amy Sherald’s She was learning to love moments, to love moments for themselves at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It was one of those experiences where you feel like the air around you shifts. Standing in front of that painting, I was completely captivated—not just by the striking balance of color and grey, but by the way it made me feel. The subject seemed so calm, so self-assured, surrounded by vibrant hues that seemed to tell their own story. It was art that didn’t just ask to be looked at; it asked to be felt.

Sherald’s work has this incredible way of blending quiet power with bold energy. Her subjects, painted in soft greys in lieu of their Black skin, are grounded and monumental, while the bursts of color around them feel alive and celebratory. It’s a perfect harmony of contrast—subtle yet commanding. I couldn’t stop thinking about how those colors and that balance could translate into spaces we live in every day. That’s where the idea for our "Moments" palette was born.

Amy Sherald, She was learning to love moments, to love moments for themselves (2017)


The palette itself is like a love letter to Sherald’s artistry. There’s this warm orange that feels like it could wrap you in a hug. A lilac purple that whispers calm and balance. Sunshine yellow that’s pure happiness bottled up. A lush green that brings a grounding, nature-inspired touch. And a rich ocean blue that’s deep, moody, and sophisticated. These colors don’t just work well together—they tell a story, just like Sherald’s painting.

The Moments palette

I imagined where these colors might live in a home. That orange would look incredible in a dining room, setting the tone for warm, inviting gatherings. The lilac could turn a bedroom into the calmest, coziest retreat. Sunshine yellow? Perfect for a kids’ room or a cheerful breakfast nook. And that blue? It’s the drama your home office or bathroom has been craving. These colors aren’t just pretty—they’re transformative.

If you’ve seen Sherald’s work in person, you know what I mean when I say her use of color feels electric. The way her grayscale subjects draw you in, forcing you to slow down and really see them, while the vibrant colors energize everything around them—it’s magic. I wanted this palette to carry that same energy: a balance of stillness and vibrancy, reflection and celebration.

The "Moments" palette is more than just a set of colors; it’s an invitation to live in the present, to love the moments that make up our lives. It’s also a celebration of Black artistry and the powerful stories it tells. Honoring Sherald’s work felt like the perfect way to recognize Black History Month and bring a touch of her brilliance into the spaces we call home.

Now, this palette is out in the world, ready to find its way into your home. You can grab it now on our Etsy shop and use it to create something special in your space. Whether it’s a bold accent wall, a cozy corner, or a playful pop of color, these shades are here to help you tell your own story.

Looking back, I’m so glad I got to experience Sherald’s work in person—it left a mark on me, and now I hope this palette can leave a mark on you. Celebrate Black History Month with us by bringing this meaningful, vibrant palette into your life.

Here’s to moments worth loving, in art and in life. 💜