Search

    Select Website Language

    On Sunday, the Obama Presidential Center revealed its inaugural commissioned portrait of Barack and Michelle Obama, together. Created by acclaimed artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby, the large-scale piece will greet visitors in the museum lobby when the center opens in Chicago on Juneteenth.

    Known for blending photography, painting, and layered imagery, Akunyili Crosby brings both the public and personal sides of the Obamas into a single frame. The work incorporates photographs, family references, historical materials, and cultural touchstones tied to the couple’s lives and experiences. Rather than focusing solely on their years in the White House, the portrait traces a broader story about family, and the paths that led them to national leadership.

    Several details nod to Michelle Obama‘s upbringing on Chicago’s South Side. Her childhood home appears in the background, accompanied by references to her family history. Elsewhere, visual elements allude to the presidency while placing equal emphasis on the lives the Obamas built before entering public office. Akunyili Crosby listened to all of the Obamas’ interviews, videos, and podcasts in order to get a feel of who they are.

    “I wanted to make the decision that tapped into those memories,” the artist told the Obamas in the video on social media. “So when you saw this it felt familiar.”

    The unveiling arrives just days before the opening of the OPC, a project years in the making. Art plays a significant role throughout the campus, with dozens of commissioned works featured throughout the site. Akunyili Crosby joins a roster of artists that includes Carrie Mae Weems, Rashid Johnson, Lorna Simpson, Julie Mehretu, Jeffrey Gibson, Nick Cave, and Alison Saar.

    The Obama Presidential Center opens June 19 in Chicago.

    Courtesy of the Obama Presidential Center
    Previous Article
    The Absolute Disrespect: UFC Fighter Josh Hokit Wins At The White House, Instantly Uses His Mic To Call Michelle Obama A “Man” 
    Next Article
    Dating Decoded: When There Are More Options, But Less Commitment

    Related Blogs Updates:

    Are you sure? You want to delete this comment..! Remove Cancel

    Comments (0)

      Leave a comment