Jack & Jill Politics

From ABC.com:

President Obama Dips in Approval Ratings, but Portrait Still Inspires
December 15, 2009 2:35 PM
ABC News’ Kim Berryman reports:

For many of his erstwhile supporters, President Obama’s image as almost an American savior is a distant memory, overshadowed by health-care battles and troop allocations, unemployment numbers and myriad disappointments. For at least one artist in a struggling community in the nation’s capital, however, the nation’s first black president and his family continue to be a powerful muse.

Just blocks from the White House at the Gospel Rescue Ministries (GRM) homeless shelter in downtown Washington, a mural featuring a heroic portrait of the First Family is displayed prominently in the lobby, painted last fall by Ethiopian artist Mekbib Gebertasadik and depicting Mr. and Mrs. Obama, Sasha, Malia and even Bo, as a representation of hope and progress.

Titled “From Menelik I to Obama,” the mural draws a connection between Menelik I, son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheeba, and the 44th U.S. President. The two figures are visually linked through numerous depictions of historical icons and civil rights leaders.
“Primarily, the clients we serve are African American and [the mural is] an inspiration to our clients of being able to dream” said Earl Murray, Associate Director for Development and Marketing for Gospel Rescue Ministries.

The faith –based shelter and drug treatment facility where the mural is displayed aims to treat their clients “physically, mentally and spiritually.” When the 103 year old organization approached Gebertasadik about his paintings the artist thought the shelter would be an appropriate venue for his large, two wall mural.

Rest of article at link above.