By Ghazali Ibrahim
Former United States President Barack Obama has unveiled a new portrait created in collaboration with Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby, describing the artwork as a reflection of important moments in his personal and political journey.
Obama announced the unveiling on his X account on Monday, revealing that the portrait will be displayed at the Hope and Change lobby of the Obama Presidential Center beginning with this year’s Juneteenth commemorations.
The former president said the artwork captures several chapters of his life story alongside that of former First Lady Michelle Obama and will form part of a broader exhibition celebrating his presidency and legacy.
Akunyili Crosby, a Nigerian-born artist based in Los Angeles, is internationally recognised for her distinctive mixed-media works that explore themes of identity, family and cultural heritage.
Sharing his excitement about the project, Obama praised the artist and highlighted the significance of the collaboration.
“It was great joining Njideka Akunyili Crosby — a gifted Nigerian-born, Los Angeles-based artist — to unveil our first portrait together. This piece reflects so many chapters of Michelle and my story, and we’re thrilled that it will be on display in the Hope and Change lobby at the Obama Presidential Center starting this Juneteenth,” Obama wrote.
The unveiling comes ahead of Juneteenth, a significant date in African American history that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
The portrait is expected to serve as one of the highlights of the Obama Presidential Center’s commemorative activities and public exhibitions.
