20 Stunning Pieces of Artwork Inspired by Presidential Inaugurations
Presidential inaugurations have long inspired captivating works of art, immortalizing moments of hope, unity, and change through the eyes of creative visionaries.
- Alyana Aguja
- 6 min read
Presidential inaugurations have been the ultimate inspiration for artists, who could capture the splendor, hope, and historicity of the transitions of power in America. From colorful paintings and delicate engravings to modern portraits and graphic art, these works express unity and democracy while reflecting the cultural and political climates of their times. Hence, they form a rich tapestry of creativity that honors the resilience and ideals of the American spirit.
1. “The Inauguration of President Washington” by Ramon de Elorriaga, 1899
Image from Wikipedia
This painting features George Washington’s first inauguration in 1789, the solemnity of the occasion, and the birth of American democracy. Elorriaga’s attention to detail brought the period attire and the era’s atmosphere to life. The artwork is housed in the U.S. Capitol.
2. “Lincoln’s Second Inauguration” by Francis Bicknell Carpenter, 1865
Image from WBUR
Carpenter’s painting depicts President Abraham Lincoln delivering his second inaugural address during the turmoil of the Civil War. The artist focused on Lincoln’s determination and hope for national unity. The piece is part of the White House art collection.
3. “The Inauguration of President Rutherford B. Hayes,” by Theodore R. Davis, 1877
Image from Alamy
This piece is an illustration for Harper’s Weekly, where Davis caught the moment of taking the oath of office by Hayes. The engraving showed the political controversy of this period and still forms a significant historical record of the event.
4. “The Inauguration of President Garfield” by Charles Graham (1881)
Image from Simple Wikipedia
The illustration by Charles Graham for Harper’s Weekly captures James A. Garfield’s inauguration, depicting the majesty of the Capitol and the people gathered there. The work depicts the optimism of a new administration. It offers insight into 19th-century inaugural ceremonies.
5. “The Inauguration of President Cleveland” by T. de Thulstrup, 1885
Image from The Library of Congress
This print shows Grover Cleveland’s first inauguration. The point is to emphasize the peaceful transfer of power. De Thulstrup’s ability captured ceremonial details and public participation. It appeared in Harper’s Weekly, making the media a history keeper.
6. “The Inauguration of President McKinley” by T. Dart Walker (1897)
Image from Wikipedia
Walker’s drawing depicts the inauguration of William McKinley, with an emphasis on the pomp and circumstance and the dignitaries in attendance. The level of detail provides insight into the pageantry of the era. It was published in Harper’s Weekly, so it was seen by many.
7. “The Inauguration of President Theodore Roosevelt” by T. de Thulstrup, 1905
Image from collections - GetArchive
De Thulstrup conveyed the vivacity of the event and captured Roosevelt’s lively manner as the new president who energized his new office. It focused attention on the themes of a modern new century. Published in Harper’s Weekly, the illustration further documents public enthusiasm for inaugurations.
8. “The Inauguration of President Wilson” by Childe Hassam, 1913
Image from Wikipedia
This impressionistic painting captured Woodrow Wilson’s inauguration parade by concentrating on the colors and motion in the parade. The feeling that the event created was encapsulated in the piece. Hassam’s works are very famous for capturing American urban and ceremonial scenes.
9. “The Inauguration of President Harding” by Joseph Pennell, 1921
Image from Wikipedia
Pennell’s etching shows Warren G. Harding’s inauguration with a view of the Capitol’s architectural majesty. The fine lines intensify the story of the solemn occasion. Pennell was famous for his architectural subjects, and this is a superb example.
10. “The Inauguration of President Franklin D. Roosevelt” by Howard Chandler Christy, 1933
Image from The White House
Christy’s painting represents FDR’s first inauguration during the Great Depression while accentuating hope and renewal. According to art historians, light represents a new start. Christy was a well-known artist known for his American icons and patriotism, and this piece is one of the best examples.
11. “The Inauguration of President Truman” by John Steuart Curry, 1949
Image from Wikipedia
John Steuart Curry’s painting captures the solemnity and pageantry of Harry S. Truman’s inauguration following Franklin D. Roosevelt’s death. The work vividly portrays the Capitol, with Truman taking the oath of office amid a crowd of dignitaries and spectators. Curry’s use of light and shadow highlights the gravity of the moment, offering a visual testament to the transition of leadership during a crucial period in American history.
12. “The Inauguration of President Kennedy” by Norman Rockwell, 1961
Image from Wikipedia
Rockwell’s painting depicts John F. Kennedy taking the oath of office, surrounded by dignitaries. The artist’s attention to likenesses adds authenticity. Rockwell’s work appeared on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post, reaching millions.
13. “The Inauguration of President Nixon” by Peter Hurd, 1969
Image from Wikiwand
Hurd’s portrait of Richard Nixon captures the contemplative aspect of the president at his inauguration. The muted tones reflect the nation’s mood at the time of such social turmoil. Hurd was an established portraitist, and this piece is in the White House collection.
14. “The Inauguration of President Carter” by Jacob Lawrence, 1977
Image from Wikipedia
Lawrence’s silkscreen print, “The Swearing In,” focuses on the American people witnessing Jimmy Carter’s inauguration. The artist’s use of bold colors and simplified forms stresses unity and democracy. This piece was part of the “Inaugural Impressions” portfolio, which the Carter-Mondale Inaugural Committee commissioned.
15. “Inaugural Print” by Roy Lichtenstein, 1977
Image from Andipa Editions
An abstract composition, Lichtenstein’s work references American cultural history, with components such as the raised hand from the presidential oath. The stars and the blue background represent democratic principles. This work was also included in the “Inaugural Impressions” portfolio for President Carter’s inauguration.
16. “1977 Presidential Inauguration” by Robert Rauschenberg, 1977
Image from Artsy
Rauschenberg’s lithograph juxtaposes images conveying the ideas of renewal and renewal embodied by President Carter’s inauguration. His collage technique assembles disparate images of American life. This print is part of the “Inaugural Impressions” portfolio.
17. “The Inauguration of President Reagan” by Jamie Wyeth, 1981
Image from The White House Communications Agency
Jamie Wyeth’s artwork depicts the gaiety of Ronald Reagan’s first inauguration, giving much attention to the celebratory mood. It gives importance to the majesty of the Capitol and the sense of national pride attached to it. The technical detail by Wyeth gives vibrancy to the scene, making it clear on both political and cultural grounds.
18. “President Clinton’s First Inauguration” by Chuck Close, 1993
Image from Wikipedia
Chuck Close’s striking portrait of Bill Clinton for the inauguration features his signature grid style. The work captures Clinton as confident and approachable, emphasizing his connection with the public. Close’s technique brings a kind of contemporary edge to his traditional portraiture.
19. “Obama’s Inauguration Day” by Shepard Fairey, 2009
Image from CNN
Fairey’s poster art for Barack Obama’s inauguration, “Be the Change,” became an iconic image of hope and progress. The piece reflects the themes of Obama’s campaign and presidency in bold colors and graphic elements. Fairey’s work resonated globally, symbolizing a new era in American politics.
20. “The People’s President” by Amy Sherald, 2021
Image from Wikipedia
Amy Sherald’s portrait of Joe Biden, painted for the Smithsonian, commemorates his inauguration. Known for her modern style and vibrant palette, Sherald captures Biden’s calm and resolute demeanor. Her work highlights the human aspects of leadership in a historic moment.
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