There have only been a few universities in Texas who hold the honor of showcasing the “Dollar Bill” portrait of George Washington, and now, Texas A&M International University has been graced with this historic opportunity. TAMIU’s Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library is showcasing “The Many Faces of George Washington” as part of the festivities for the annual Washington’s Birthday Celebration, held in Laredo. Carol Wyrick, retired Director of Education of the National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., made this all possible. Acting as guest speaker of the occasion, Wyrick briefed the audience on how the painting came to be and also gave some insight into the man responsible for the exclusive piece of art, Gilbert Stuart, as well as the subject of the painting, our nation’s first president, George Washington.
Stuart was a persistent businessman who secured his chance to meet with George Washington through favor with the president’s wife, Martha Washington. Mrs. Washington was a fan of Stuart’s work and wanted no one other than Gilbert Stuart to capture the image of Washington himself. Unique in his style, in that he would paint the head first and improvise body characteristics without the subject present, Stuart has cemented his place in history with the familiar image of the “Dollar Bill” portrait. During his work, he found that Washington was not easily approachable in conversation (which is important for an artist to do) nor too fond of sitting for long periods of time, which is evident in the first president’s somber expression.
Media, faculty members, and interested parties alike were witness to the unveiling which was accompanied by drinks, appetizers and a sophisticated, friendly atmosphere. As everyone was seated and all of the events sponsors were thanked, Carol Wyrick was introduced. Wyrick expressed her passion for art, describing in detail by exclaiming, “You’re going to see a painting with that rich surface of oil on canvas with color, and you’re going to see that it was laid on the canvas by Gilbert Stuart, somebody that lived in 1796, who had live sittings with George Washington and exchanged conversation with George Washington.” Wyrick goes on to remind the audience, especially any children who may be witness to the event, just how special the occasion is by stating: “When you think about it, you’re occupying space that they occupied.”
“The Many Faces of George Washington” will be on display at the TAMIU Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library until Feb. 25. Sponsors of the event include TAMIU, the Harlan Crow Library of Dallas, IBC Bank, the City of Laredo, the Washington’s Birthday Celebration Association, the Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Charitable Foundation, the Lucy Meriwether Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Southern Distributing Co., and Toni L. Ruiz. More information on the ongoing exhibit can be found at http://www.tamiu.edu/portraitproject/#News pertaining to other events that will be an ongoing part of the portrait project.
(Jose Quezada may be reached at jlqjr2006@dusty.tamiu.edu)