The first official joint portrait of #Barack and #MichelleObama has been unveiled at a private ceremony at the #Obama Presidential Center in Chicago. Painted by celebrated Nigerian-American artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby, the piece titled The Obamas: Springing Forth (2026) represents the very first time the couple has been captured together in a single official commissioned portrait.

Acclaimed artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby painted the piece, blending painting with photo-transfers from Nigerian media and the Obamas’ personal archives to capture their lives intimately. Michelle Obama called it an honor, praising its life and joy, while the work greets visitors in the Chicago center’s lobby starting Juneteenth, June 19. The 19-acre site in Jackson Park’s South Side opens free to the public next week, featuring a museum, library, gym, and outdoor spaces as a community hub. Online, fans celebrated the artistry and Crosby’s Nigerian roots, though some critiqued the style or artist’s background.

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 such life and joy into the piece is truly extraordinary. We love it, and we think everyone who visits the… pic.twitter.com/3raI6ac2cj

— Michelle Obama (@MichelleObama) June 15, 2026