February 20, 2012

Presidents and Art

American history is full of numerous pieces of art created in honor or memory of presidents:

Grant Wood painted George Washington cutting down the cherry tree,


Mount Rushmore is possibly the most famous presidential sculpture, 


And Shepard Fairey created an iconic poster for Barack Obama's presidential candidacy.


















Throughout American history, presidents have also used their position of power to amass extensive art collections.  FDR began collecting at an early age, and visitors now experience his large collection at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library.    

The White House also contains about 450 pieces of art in a permanent collection.  President Obama and the first lady began seeking new, more modern pieces created by a wider, more diverse population of artists soon after winning the election. 


Happy Presidents Day!

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