Smithsonian Portrait Gallery

 Perhaps because of its location which is NOT right on the DC Mall.... we have never visited the Portrait Gallery before.  The building itself is worth a visit, but the contents were amazing as well.   As are the rest of the museums of the Smithsonian.... they are free.   It is only a few blocks away from the mall area... well worth the extra steps.

Atrium.... perfect respite from a hot day outside.... the little pools of water on the floor are perfect for little ones.....

The restoration of the building opened up the ceiling with massive skylights.....

Controversial Portrait of Michelle Obama

Clinton Portrait - Interesting Artistic Technique... See Below......

I read at a later date that this portrait was only placed in the museum AFTER Clinton rejected the original more formal portrait that was done of him. 

Barack Obama
One of the joys of viewing this portrait is to watch the lines of people waiting to take their photographs WITH the portrait.

Folded Paper - Silhouettes

Arrangement of Numbers Creates the Portrait

Part of an Exhibit of Portraits - All from 1968

Great Variety of Exhibits - This One is CANES

If Michelle Obama's portrait were done more in this style, I would imagine it would be more popular... Most people think that it does not flatter her at all.