Every retiring US president and first lady take part in a somewhat “artsy” rite of passage.
The couple each select an artist to paint their portraits which then hang in the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in Washington, alongside other former US presidents who have their likenesses hanging in the museum.
Former US president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama never shy away from presidential tradition, though the much-loved couple always put their own stamp events.
Their portrait reveals were no different.
Barack Obama’s portrait
Michelle Obama’s portrait
Barack selected artist Yale University trained painter Kehinde Wiley, making him the first African-American artist to have an official presidential portrait hanging in the National Portrait Gallery.
Michelle picked Amy Sherald to create her likeness, an African-American artist known for painting subjects with links to social justice movements.
Both images left viewers in awe, but Barack seemed especially pleased with the likeness of Michelle.
“Amy, I want to thank you for so spectacularly capturing the grace and beauty and intelligence and charm and hotness of the woman I love,” the 44th Presdient of the United States said at the reveal in praise of Sherald.
Indeed the love between this pair continues to burn bright, with Barack taking to Instagram to profess his adoration for Michelle, 54, with a birthday message that we’re sure melted our hearts along with Michelle’s.
“You’re not only my wife and the mother of my children, you’re my best friend,” he posted, along with a picture of the two sharing a tender moment together. “I love your strength, your grace, and your determination. And I love you more each day.”
Michelle lovingly responded: “You’re my best friend, biggest fan, and getting notes and flowers from you will never get old.”
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