Obama new portrait by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby will be displayed at the Obama Presidential Center from Juneteenth

Former United States President Barack Obama has unveiled a new joint portrait with former First Lady Michelle Obama, created by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby.

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Obama announced the unveiling in a social media post, describing Akunyili Crosby as a gifted artist whose work captures important moments from the couple’s shared journey.

“It was great joining Njideka Akunyili Crosby — a gifted Nigerian-born, Los Angeles-based artist — to unveil our first portrait together,” Obama said.

According to the former president, the artwork reflects multiple chapters of the lives of both Barack and Michelle Obama and represents a significant addition to the collection of the Obama Presidential Center.

The portrait will be displayed in the Hope and Change lobby at the Obama Presidential Center beginning on Juneteenth, a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the end of slavery.

Obama expressed enthusiasm about the public debut of the piece, noting that both he and Michelle were delighted with the finished work.

The unveiling also highlights the growing international recognition of Akunyili Crosby, whose work has earned acclaim for its exploration of identity, culture and personal history.

Born in Nigeria and based in Los Angeles, the artist is regarded as one of the most influential contemporary artists of her generation.

The Obama New Portrait is expected to become a major attraction at the presidential centre, offering visitors a fresh artistic interpretation of one of America’s most prominent political couples.

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The unveiling comes as preparations continue for public programmes and exhibitions associated with the Obama Presidential Center, which celebrates leadership, civic engagement and community development.