The Obama Portraits – Maniscalco Gallery

Click to see the images and read the AP News story

   I’d like to offer a word or two about the recent presentation of the Obama’s official portraits, for what it’s worth. First, what a class act. There was no mention of the insult leveled by the previous admin for not doing this when he had the chance. I watched the whole proceeding, not one mention of this insult, nor of the former president. It was a class act.

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   Second, a word about the portraits themselves, which are often a source of controversy. I thought Barack’s portrait hit the mark beautifully. Direct, strong, flaws and all. I also enjoyed the white background, which for me represents the white’s only club he upended by his presidency, and which was unwittingly bruised and unfortunately reawakened by his very being.

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   I am not as enthusiastic about Michelle’s portrait. I like the

Stewart Mungo Portrait Unveiling – Maniscalco Gallery

Stewart Mungo portraitPortrait of Stewart Mungo Unveiled, October 11, 2022

Stewart Mungo portrait Close up

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I’m very excited to present my portrait of home developer, Stewart Mungo of Mungo Homes. It’s a privilege to continue their portrait tradition, begun by the late great Michael del Priore.

It’s always a little nerve wracking when a portrait is revealed to public, especially when the subject has not signed off on it. But they wanted it to be a surprise. Stewart posed for numerous photos with me so I had the opportunity to know get to him. It was a joy to learn about his work and dedication to Mungo Homes when it needed his guiding hand, his triumph over cancer and the legacy of the company he helped build. Steward is a sailor and loves all things nautical, so I had to include that somehow. There was some conversation about whether to paint him wearing a ties, something