Barack And Michelle Obama’s Official Portraits Are Unveiled And They are Different

Former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s official portraits were released on Monday at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D. C. Michelle Obama’s portrait that was released first, was painted by Amy Sherald. Next, former President- Barack Obama’s portrait was unveiled that was painted by artist Kehinde Wiley.  The Obama family noticeably chose black artists to paint their portraits who were praised by Kim Sajet, Director of the National Portrait Gallery.

Sajet said “Both have achieved enormous success as artists, but even more, they make art that reflects the power and potential of portraiture in the 21st century.” In the event, Michelle Obama spoke of her late father who sacrificed everything to give her and her brothers opportunities which he never had for himself.

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She even thought about the girls, who in the future would come to this place, look up and see a portrait of someone who looks like them.  Former President Obama praised both the artists. He praised Amy Sherald for the enormous effort she put in creating his wife’s portrait. He said that it captured “the grace, intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman I love.” He also praised Wiley saying that he was in awe of the artist’s gifts.

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Unlike most official portraits, these African-American artists took a different approach to create the portraits. It was not the regular office- setting nor were there books and desks in the background. Instead, the artists have used vibrant backgrounds. The poses chosen by the Obama family were also uncommon.  Michelle Obama was seen wearing a vibrant dress against a solid blue background whereas Barack Obama was seen sitting in a casual pose with lush green leaves in the background.

The artists have certainly broken the norm when it comes to office  portraiture and looks like this trend will continue in the years to come.