The official portraits of former President Barack Obama and his wife, former first lady Mrs. Obama, were unveiled in a lighthearted ceremony on Wednesday.
The ceremony was hosted by President Joe Biden, who was Obama's vice president for eight years. Donald Trump did not host an event for the Obamas to unveil their portrait. The Bidens talked about how close their families were to Obama during his time in office.
"In countless hours, over countless meetings, under intense pressure, we always knew what you would do, even if it cost you the election," Biden said. All of you were in this room. We had faith in him. We were on top of him. I continue to do.
Biden said that the country elected them twice. You will be one of the most consequential presidents.
Obama talked about his memories of Air Force One, as well as his praise for his family, former White House staff, and the Biden family.
It is now America's good fortune to have you as president, Obama said. You've helped us through some difficult times. The country is better off than it was when you took office because you have built on and gone beyond the work we all did together.
The former president joked that it was a little shocking to see some of his staff who were young when he was in office. He joked that he was disappointed that no one had named their child after him.
The portrait of the former president's wife captured everything he loved about her. She's right.
Robert McCurdy was thanked by Obama for taking on a difficult topic. He said McCurdy paints people exactly as they are and refused Obama's requests to make his ears smaller, paint his gray hair and wear a tan suit.
The former president was very present and easy to work with, according to Marguerite. His painting almost resembles a photograph that he originated through photography. The president was getting ready for the painting.
Everyone gets this speech when they sit for me. Don't make gestures or smile. "Just hold into that moment," McCurdy said in the show. We are looking for a more contemplative moment.
Sharon Sprung is the only woman in history to paint an official White House portrait.
She gave me this trust that you do your thing and I do my thing. I will trust you with your thing. Sprung said of the former first lady that she thinks portraiture works better sometimes.
Obama said that the ceremony wasn't just about their visit.
A portrait of a biracial kid with an unusual name and the daughter of a water pump operator reminds us that there is a place for everyone in this country. If the two of us can end up on the walls of the most famous address in the world, it's so important for every young kid who doubts themselves to believe that they can.
A reception was held at the White House. The portraits of the presidents and first ladies will hang together.
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