Skip to main content
What if you were me?
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
What if you were me?
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

What if you were me?

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.685314
Object Type Painting
Gifter
Artist (Goshen, IN)
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Date 2009
Medium canvas, paint (oil), wood, metal
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 23 3/4 in x W 30 in x D 1 1/2 in (60.3 cm x 76.2 cm x 3.8 cm )
Physical DescriptionOil painting on canvas with a light blue background that depicts portraits of six people divided by a gray line with text: "What if you were me?" with a variety of religious symbols on either side. The portraits in the top row are of an Asian man, a South Asian woman, and a young boy with brown hair. The portraits in the bottom row are of an elderly white woman, a Black man, and a Middle Eastern woman wearing a black niqab.
Historical NoteThis painting was presented to President Barack Obama during his visit to Goshen, Indiana for a town hall meeting at Goshen College in February 9, 2009. It was given in honor of the people of Elkhart County.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack 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 Barack Obama Presidential Library. The Barack 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)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view