The Obama Foundation on Monday unveiled the first official portrait of President and Mrs. Obama, painted by Njideka Akunyili Crosby. The painting is exhibited in the Museum’s Hope and Change Lobby, a public space that requires no ticket.  Entitled The Obamas: Springing Forth, 2026, the artist unveiled the piece to President and Mrs. Obama for the first time on June 14, 2026.  Akunyili Crosby’s portrait of the Obamas is based on an original photograph taken by the artist and portrays the Obamas within a formal yet intimate scene. Weaving together archival images, family albums, historical ephemera, and symbolic elements, the work connects the Obamas to the many generations of artists, activists, and citizens who helped pave their way to the White House and sustained them through two terms and into the present day. The Obama Presidential Center’s grand opening celebrations will begin on June 18 and last through June 21:

• June 18: Dedication Ceremony on the John Lewis Plaza, with global livestream featuring legendary performances by global icons and powerful remarks from today’s most prominent voices

• June 19: Campus and Museum Open to the Public 

• June 20 and 21: Community Celebrations Throughout Campus

More information about the full scope of the Center’s commissioned art offerings can be found at obama.org.

Photo Credit: Obama Foundation