Skip to main content
He Ain't Heavy Sculpture
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
He Ain't Heavy Sculpture
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

He Ain't Heavy Sculpture

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.04242013-20-1
Object Type Sculpture
Artist (American, 1941)
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Medium wood, paint, adhesive, felt
DimensionsOverall - 3D H 13 in x W 5 7/8 in x D 5 7/8 in (33 cm x 14.9 cm x 14.9 cm )

Physical DescriptionCarved wooden sculpture based upon Gilbert Young's work "He Ain't Heavy". It features an African-American man reaching down from the top of a tan wooden wall in order to pull another man's arm up out of green-hued water. It is mounted on a brown base.
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
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)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view