The Big Reveal: First Official Joint Portrait of President and Mrs. Obama Was Made by Artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby
President and Mrs. Obama view their first joint portrait with artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby on June 14, 2026, in the Hope and Change Lobby of the Obama Presidential Center’s museum building. | Courtesy Obama Foundation DAYS BEFORE the Obama Presidential Center is scheduled to open in Chicago, Ill., the Obama Foundation unveiled the first...
Uprising of the Sun: Multi-Story Window Painted by Julie Mehretu Will Greet Visitors at Forthcoming Obama Presidential Center
Rendering of “Uprising of the Sun” by Julie Mehretu – Women’s Garden View, Obama Presidential Center Museum Building. | Photo: Lamar Johnson Collaborative and Julie Mehretu Studio WHEN THE OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL CENTER opens in 2026, visitors will be greeted by the work of Julie Mehretu. Working with glass for the first time, the renowned...
In First Date Movie ‘Southside With You,’ Paintings by Ernie Barnes Fuel Connection Between Barack and Michelle Obama
A VISIT TO A MUSEUM, helped Barack Obama win Michelle Robinson’s heart. “Southside With You,” a new film about the first couple’s first date, includes a trip to the Art Institute of Chicago. There they view an exhibition that features paintings by Ernie Barnes (1938-2009), representational works reflecting the African American experience with lithe...
