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My Destiny
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
My Destiny
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

My Destiny

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.761484
Object Type Painting
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Medium canvas, ink, paper (mat board), metal, adhesive, plaster, paint, plastic (acrylic)
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 21 1/2 in x W 45 1/2 in x D 1 3/8 in (54.6 cm x 115.6 cm x 3.5 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionMulti-colored triptych print on canvas depicting Barack Obama and important figures in his life, with colorful hatched lines at the bottom and on the sides. The first panel is based on Obama's heritage and contains portraits of his grandparents and parents. The second panel is based on Obama's family and contains portraits of Michelle at various ages. The third panel is based on influential historical figures including Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr. All three canvases are matted together and held in a black frame with plaques below each artwork.
Inscriptions and MarkingsInscribed on each canvas: [artist's signature] Text of upper plaque on obverse: MY DESTINY Text of left plaque on obverse: MY HERITAGE Text of center plaque on obverse: MY ROCK Text of right plaque on obverse: MY INSPIRATION
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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