It's the first event Michelle Obama has vist the White House since Baracl Obama left the Oval Office in 2017/
Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama returned to the White House on Wednesday. They came back to the unveiling of their official portraits, reviving the bipartisan tradition that stalled under the Trump administration.
“Barack and Michelle, welcome home,” President Joe Biden said
The White House Historical Association has facilitated acquiring portraits of presidents and first ladies since 1965. Once completed, the portraits are displayed in the White House. Most presidents and first ladies select artists before they leave office.
Former President Donald Trump did not host an unveiling ceremony during his time in office. There was no official explanation.
The portraits, along with the artists commissioned, were kept secret until Wednesday. Obama selected the artist Robert McCurdy to do his portrait, and Michelle Obama commissioned Sharon Sprung.
“You see, the people they make their voices heard with their vote. We hold an inauguration to ensure a peaceful transition of power,” she said. “And once our time is up, we move on. And all that remains in this hallowed place are our good efforts. And these portraits, portraits that connect our history to the present day, portraits that hang here as history continues to be made.”
Comments