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Skittles
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Skittles
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Skittles

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.04252013-4-1
Object Type Drawing
Artist/ Maker (American)
Gifter
Date ca. 2012
Medium paper, ink, pencil
DimensionsOverall W 37 1/2 in x L 23 1/2 in (95.3 cm x 59.7 cm )
Physical DescriptionArtwork drawn on the inside of a brown paper grocery bag that depicts an abstract scene of the killing of Trayvon Martin by George Zimmerman in 2012. Drawn in black ink and colored pencil, the artwork portrays one person shooting another person who is holding a bag of Skittles and wearing a hoodie. There are four other people wearing hoodies who stand facing away from the viewer. One person is reaching up towards the shooter and another is reaching up towards Trayvon. The background consists of buildings, spiral designs, and an abstract moon and sun conjoined together. The gun and the bag of Skittles are completed in color, as is part of the sun. Trader Joe's grocery store graphics are visible on the reverse.
Historical NoteThe gifter, who is also the artist, wrote in a letter that she was deeply moved and affected by the shooting of Trayvon Martin.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to the First Family 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.
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