*A new portrait of Barack and Michelle Obama will greet visitors to the Obama Presidential Center. The former first couple unveiled the artwork ahead of the center’s opening in Chicago, NBC Chicago reports.
Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby created the portrait. Visitors will be able to view it in the Hope and Change lobby when the center opens later this week. Crosby titled the work The Obamas: Springing Forth, 2026. Rather than creating a straightforward piece, she created work that reflects different moments, influences, and experiences from the Obamas’ lives.
Michelle Obama praised the portrait, calling it “so pretty” and “beautiful” before adding, “oh my God you got everything in there.”
Drawing inspiration from a photograph, Crosby incorporated collage techniques and historical imagery to create a richer visual story. The finished work contains references to family, public service, culture, and personal milestones that have shaped Barack and Michelle over the years.
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Among the details woven into the composition are nods to Michelle’s upbringing, memories from the couple’s life together, and objects associated with Barack Obama’s time in office. Cultural references, books, awards, and symbolic imagery also appear throughout the piece.
“The first official painted portrait of President and Mrs. Obama together, the work memorializes their journey to the White House while honoring their legacy for generations to come,” per the Obama Foundation.
The portrait arrives as final preparations continue for the opening of the Obama Presidential Center. A grand opening ceremony is scheduled for Thursday, with the museum welcoming the public beginning Friday.
Watch the portrait unveiling in the clip below.
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