Michelle Obama shares photo from her time in White House amid rumors of marital strife with Barack

WASHINGTON, DC: Michelle Obama has shared a throwback photo from her time as the first lady amid ongoing rumors of a marital discord between her and former President Barack Obama. 

The activist and mother of two, 61, has been celebrating Black History Month, as she shared an old photo where she posed with her portrait artist Amy Sherald. 

The former first lady recalled her meaningful connection with Sherald after she and Barack interviewed her for the post of her official portrait artist.

Michelle Obama shares throwback photo from her time in White House

Michelle Obama, along with her husband Barack, was a resident of the White House from 2009 to 2017, when the Democrat served as the President of the United States of America. 

On Thursday, February 13, the philanthropist shared a post containing a photo of her with Sherald along with adding a number of artworks by the artist. 

Explaining the reason behind her poignant post, Michelle wrote, “Throughout Black History Month, I’ll be sharing stories of folks who are transforming our culture with their talents and helping us think about the world in new and innovative ways. I’m excited to start with artist Amy Sherald.”

The former frst lady noted that she first met the artist back when she was in the White House, noting, “Barack and I interviewed her to work on our portraits for the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery in DC.”

She further highlighted that the duo formed an “instant connection", the moment Sherald started “talking about her craft", adding, “And I knew she was the one to work on my portrait.”

Michelle continued to praise the 51-year-old Georgia-born artist, noting, “Amy’s an incredible talent with extraordinary character and strength, and her paintings often speak for themselves.”

“With her signature style, it’s easy to distinguish her work in many of the galleries that you see today. Her path wasn’t easy – she made tremendous sacrifices, but stayed faithful to her gifts, refusing to give up on what she had to offer to the world,” she continued before warmly declaring, “That’s why she is one of the best artists of her generation.”

She signed off while urging her fans to check out Sherald’s works on the occasion of Black History Month. 

Along with a montage of Sherald’s work, Michelle also shared an image of the artist hugging her as the first lady wore the same black-and-white dress that served as an inspiration for her portrait.

Back in 2018, when Sherald’s portrait of Michelle was unveiled, her artwork received biting criticism from a section of fans, who claimed the portrait bore little resemblance to Michelle, as reported by Daily Mail.

Barack Obama's portrait was created by artist Kehinde Wiley, on the other hand, was more well received. 

Michelle Obama’s marriage with Barack Obama under scanner 

Michelle’s latest post came amid rumors of a marital strife between the married couple of 32 years. 

As the Nobel laureate attended former President Jimmy Carter’s state funeral alone last month, rumors started brewing that the couple were on the path to separation. Barack attending President Donald Trump’s inauguration alone last month did not help the rumors to settle down. 

Nevertheless, the Obamas have always shown a united front, as suggested by their recent social media activities.

On Michelle’s birthday last month, the 63-year-old former president penned a loving note wishing his wife. 

Sharing a photo of them, the 44th president wrote, “Happy birthday to the love of my life, @MichelleObama. You fill every room with warmth, wisdom, humor, and grace – and you look good doing it. I’m so lucky to be able to take on life’s adventures with you. Love you!”

He even showed off a united front while composing a memorial note after the death of Jimmy Carter.

“President Carter taught all of us what it means to live a life of grace, dignity, justice, and service,” wrote Barack, before adding, “Michelle and I send our thoughts and prayers to the Carter family, and everyone who loved and learned from this remarkable man.”