Former United States President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have unveiled a joint portrait created by Nigerian-born artist Njideka Akunyili-Crosby, ahead of its public display at the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.
Obama shared the announcement in a social media post, describing the moment as a celebration of both art and personal history.
“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,” he said.
Michelle Obama also praised the artist’s work, highlighting the emotional depth and creativity captured in the portrait.
“Barack and I were so honored to have @AkunyiliCrosby create our portrait for the Obama Presidential Center. Her artistic brilliance shines through—and the way she infused the piece with such life and joy is truly extraordinary. We love it, and we think everyone who visits the Center will too!” she said.
Akunyili-Crosby is the daughter of the late Dora Akunyili, former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). She has earned international acclaim for her distinctive style, which blends painting with photographic collage.
The newly unveiled portrait weaves together archival imagery, family albums, historical ephemera and cultural touchstones to create a layered visual narrative of the Obamas’ lives and legacy.
The artwork will be displayed in the “Hope and Change” lobby of the Obama Presidential Center, which is scheduled to open to the public from 19 June, marking Juneteenth in the United States.
The centre, located in Chicago, spans nearly 20 acres and is designed as a cultural and civic hub. In addition to a museum, it will feature art installations, a library, recreational spaces and community areas.
