“MICHELLE AND SASHA OBAMA LISTENING TO BARACK OBAMA AT THE DEMOCRATIC NATIONAL CONVENTION AUGUST 2008” BY ELIZABETH PEYTON AT THE NEW MUSEUM

The historic nature of this election has echoes reaching every facet of our society, probably in more ways than we can understand in the present. Art has always been a reflection of society, and the spur of inspiration has rendered beautiful results.

Eliabeth Peyton, born in 1965, is an American contemporary artist who rose to fame in the 90’s for her idealized paintings of subjects that range from pop celebrities to European monarch. At the time she was even credited for reviving the tradition of the portrait, which had been declared “dead” by some art critics. Her reflective pieces couldn’t be more pertinent during this groundbreaking epoch.

Adding to her exhibition, “Live Forever: Elizabeth Peyton”, is a soft and powerful portrait of ‘First Lady Elect’ Michelle Obama and her daughter Sasha sharing a moment of humility and glory. Michelle and Sasha Obama Listening to Barack Obama at the Democratic National Convention August 2008 astutely explores the big and the small of the 2008 election by contrasting the Obamas as a symbol for breaking race barriers with them as individuals. It radiates humanity, captures the tone of the election precisely, and is a brilliant addition to her collection.

Live Forever: Elizabeth Peyton 
New Museum
235 Bowery
212.219.1222
Weds., Sat., & Sun., 12-6pm, Thurs. & Fri., 12-10pm
General Admission: $12