Art of the Presidency with Stewart McLaurin

Join us on Wednesday, September 17, at 6 p.m., for an in-depth conversation on presidential history and portraiture with Stewart McLaurin, president of the White House Historical Association. McLaurin will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the Association’s preservation work; its renowned collection of paintings and sculptures; and the legacy of First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy’s vision to restore and protect the Executive Mansion.

This program is held in conjunction with our current temporary exhibit "Portraits From a Presidency," which features the official White House portraits of President and then-First Lady Clinton. McLaurin will use this conversation to highlight notable works from the Association’s collection and reflect on how portraiture shapes our understanding of the presidency.

The program will be available on our YouTube channel the following day.

About "Portraits From a Presidency"

This original exhibit will feature two- and three-dimensional portraits of the Clinton family members, including more than 50 paintings, sculptures, engravings, and photographs. "Portraits" displays works by prominent artists such as Faith Ringgold, Peter Max, Arkansan George Fisher, and Chuck Close, alongside personal, heartfelt pieces created by everyday Americans and citizens from foreign countries.

ASL interpretation is available during our events.

Clinton Presidential Center Presents is a partnership between the Clinton Foundation, Clinton School of Public Service at the University of Arkansas, and Clinton Presidential Library.

Stewart McLaurin serves as president of the White House Historical Association. The Association was founded in 1961 by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy to share and preserve the rich history of the White House. In his 11 years as president, Stewart has expanded the Association’s cultural and educational programming through award-winning books, popular video series, and virtual and in-person events.

Stewart is the host of The White House 1600 Sessions, the Association’s official audio and video podcast devoted to exploring the history and untold stories of America’s most iconic residence and highest office. He is a member of the USA Today Board of Contributors and writes a monthly column about the history of the White House and our nation’s presidents and first ladies.

Stewart is the author of three books, including the 2021 anthology "James Hoban: Designer and Builder of the White House,” which presents the life and work of the little-known Irish-American architect handpicked by George Washington to design the President’s House. He recently adapted this story into a children's book, "The White House: Designed by James Hoban, Built by Many Hands."

Ambassador Caroline Kennedy said of Stewart, "I’m sorry my mother didn’t get a chance to work with you since you seem to run at her speed."

Host or Publisher Clinton Presidential Center