The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery unveiled its commissioned portraits of former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama on Monday. The Obama portraits have received an appropriate number of negative comments. However, the artists were chosen by the Obamas and they apparently approved the paintings. Therefore, we must accept that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the person who is observing gets to decide what is beautiful.
My concern is, with all the advanced photographic equipment available, why is the Smithsonian still adding paintings to their presidential collection? Photography gives future historians a better view of what our presidents looked like in their time. Besides, portraits are extremely expensive compared to photographs.
Before the House Appropriations Committee approves additional funding, I suggest they look into the Smithsonian’s antiquated traditions.
