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A Place in Presidential History
Having my artwork of Barack and Michelle Obama included in the Barack Obama Presidential Library is one of the greatest honors of my career.
Presidential libraries preserve the people, ideas, and defining moments that become part of our nation’s history, so knowing that something I created by hand now has a permanent place within that story is difficult to fully put into words.
This means even more to me because of the journey that brought me back to art.
What began as a deeply personal decision to start drawing again has taken me to places I never could have imagined. To see this artwork of the National Archives dedicated to President Obama’s life, leadership, and legacy is both humbling and surreal. It is a reminder of how far a pencil, patience, and the courage to begin again can take you.
True Love
This drawing was presented to President Obama by Washington State Governor Jay Inslee. The President also immediately recognized the “moment” that I drew, and was blown away by the level of detail. He kept commenting on how real the drawing looked (much of the fine details aren’t visible in photos of the drawing). That’s pretty much the best reaction I could ever hope for!
Attached to the back of the frame is a letter (pic on the upper left) that includes this quote: “Happy is the man who finds a true friend, and far happier is he who finds that true friend is his wife.” – Franz Schubert
Also included is a short biography about me (with my contact info) and, most importantly, a note about the significance of this piece:
“This pencil art was create for President Barack Hussein Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama to thank them for their service on behalf of all Washingtonians. While the legacy that is left in history will be remembered for the sacrifices and deeds accomplished, it is your love and commitment that will be forever remembered by those whose hearts you have touched.”
To say that I’m honored to create a piece on behalf of all Washingtonians is understatement. Since returning to art, I’ve done my best to represent our state both in-person and across the “global village” that is social media. It’s truly unbelievable to be recognized on this level, and I’m so grateful.
This original drawing of Barack and Michelle Obama is now part of President Obama’s Presidential Library collection in Chicago.
