” . . . with the art world wondering how they will be portrayed by the noted African-American artists they selected to portray them. . . “
Oh, REALLY? So only “noted African-American artists” (noted by WHOM?) get to paint our beloved ex-President and his mate? Were any, I dunno, WHITE people considered to paint our beloved ex-President and his mate? If not - gee, what is you call that again? Oh, yeah. In your face RACISM.
It was their choice and they wanted to elevate artists they admire. What’s the problem with that? Obama at least chose someone who could paint his likeness but who sat him in the bushes. Mrs Obama chose poorly for both the likeness and focus part.