Kehinde Wiley to Paint Former President Obama's Portrait

Renowned Artist to Capture the Essence of the Nation's First African American President

The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery has commissioned Brooklyn-based artist Kehinde Wiley to create a portrait of former President Barack Obama, making him the first African American artist to paint a presidential portrait for the museum.

Wiley is known for his vibrant large-scale paintings of African Americans posing as famous figures in Western art. His work often explores themes of race, identity, and representation.

The portrait of Obama is expected to be completed in early 2018 and will be unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C..

Wiley's selection is a significant moment for the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, which has been criticized in the past for its lack of diversity in its collection.

This commission is a testament to Wiley's talent and his commitment to creating art that reflects the diverse population of the United States.

Conclusion

Kehinde Wiley's portrait of former President Obama will be a powerful and iconic image that will inspire generations to come. It will be a reminder of Obama's legacy as a transformative leader and a symbol of the progress that has been made in the fight for racial equality.