Official Obama Portraits Unveiled at the White House

The White House held a ceremony to unveil the official portraits of President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama. Better late than never, right?

Artist Robert McCurdy painted the official portrait for President Obama. He tells his subjects not to smile and to look directly into the camera to capture a transcendental moment.

Michelle Obama selected artist Sharon Sprung. Mrs. Obama's statement about how a girl like her was never meant to be in the White House is inspiring.

For more information on the Smithsonian portraits, check out podcast episode 127, Rise of the Black Portrait Artist