Woman In Red
$1,500.00
The Artwork
About HISTORY + HOPE = CHANGE
HISTORY + HOPE = CHANGE
HISTORY + HOPE = CHANGE. was asked to create this piece for one of Barack Obama's meet-and-greet events in Cincinnati, Ohio just before he was sworn in as President. My cousin, Mark Mallory, was mayor of Cincinnati, and we stood last in line to meet Obama. When it was my turn, I presented my business card with "He Ain't Heavy" on it, and Obama asked if I was the one who created it. When I told him I was, our soon to be first African American President of the United States of America (yes I was proud) said to me, "you're a legend". WOW. This portrait was unveiled and I asked Obama if I could sign it with him standing in the photo with me. He took the marker from me and he bent and signed the piece first!!!!
According to Sotheby's and Christie's auction houses, there are no other painted portraits of ANY US president that are signed by the subject. You have an opportunity to acquire one for your own collection or to give as a very special gift.
This piece captures history many times over. It shows the first black president. It shows the first two-term black president. It is signed by the subject. And it is truly one of a kind.
Since Obama signed the original art, his signature appears on the posters and the prints. You won't find any other portrait of Obama with an authentic signature.
I'm proud to say the original will remain one of our family's greatest treasures.
Collector Details
What to Know About This Piece
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About the Collection
Gilbert Young is a renowned African American artist, muralist, and art conservator whose work profoundly captures the African American experience. His iconic painting, He Ain't Heavy, exemplifies his commitment to figurative realism and serves as a powerful piece of social commentary. Beyond his studio work, Young has made significant contributions as a community activist, creating impactful public murals that celebrate cultural heritage and address pertinent social issues. His art not only reflects the richness of African American culture but also inspires dialogue and understanding within the broader community.
Artist Signature
Signed and documented
This piece is signed by the artist and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
Image Rights
Image copyright © 2026 by Gilbert Young.
Authorized Source
Authenticity & Documentation
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Gilbert Young's support of various community activities and events in his native town of Cincinnati, Ohio spans over two decades. He was active there in both the artistic and scholastic arenas. Young served as Director and Conservator of the Fine Arts Collection for the University of Cincinnati for twenty-six years. He also served as Artist-in Residence for the University in 1994-1995.
Dating back to 1975, this multi-talented, multi-faceted, internationally known artist has lent the use of his images and time to many community projects and organizations. Young served as a consultant to the Harriet Beecher Stowe House Project, a renovation and restoration project for the Harriet Beecher Stowe house, creating a cultural arts center for the visual and performing arts in Cincinnati. In 1991, when the Cincinnati branch of the National Council of Negro Women hosted its first "Black Family Reunion", Gilbert was asked to provide the image that would become the official poster of the event. He also lent the use of his image, "Inside Daddy's World" , to The Black Male Coalition of Greater Cincinnati, Inc. in 1995 as the cover of their brochure and one of his most profound works, a commissioned portrait of civil rights leader Dr. martin Luther King hangs in the lobby of University Hospital.
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