Charles Fazzino had the honor of being commissioned by the White House Historical Association (WHHA) to create an official commemorative artwork for the grand opening of The People’s House: A White House Experience, a new interactive educational space, tourist attraction, and museum in Washington, D.C. located down the street from the White House. Fazzino’s commemorative piece, The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History, illustrates over 200 years of White House history in his signature 3D pop art style.
The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History DX Version
The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History PR Version
On Wednesday September 18th, Fazzino joined WHHA board members and other VIP guests at the exclusive Cafe Milano in Washington DC for a private unveiling of the commissioned artwork. The evening featured a Q&A with the artist hosted by Anita McBride, Director of the First Ladies Initiative at American University and Board Member of the White House Historical Association. The duo was introduced and the commissioned artwork unveiled by C-Span’s Howard Mortman.
Fazzino showing the fine details of his “The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History” to guests at the Cafe Milano Unveiling.
McBride, who has long championed White House history and educational initiatives, engaged Fazzino in a conversation about the intricate process of selecting historical moments for the piece. Fazzino described how he drew inspiration inspiration from a recent trip to Pennsylvania Dutch country with his wife: “I was walking by some of the Amish stores, and they were showing these gorgeous and intricate quilts. And I said, ‘Wow, I’m going to create an American quilt to tell the story of The White House. There’s nothing more American than a beautiful quilt, with detailed and disparate images woven together into one whole”, said Fazzino. Each square of the Fazzino artwork quilt depicts a moment in White House history, featuring notable scenes such John F. Kennedy Jr. playing under the Resolute Desk, Michelle Obama breaking the jumping jack world record, and Joe Biden sitting with his dog Commander in the Oval Office.
You can watch the full interview with Anita McBride here!
Charles Fazzino being interviewed by Anita McBride in Cafe Milano.
The experience was almost “pageant-like” as described by Fazzino. Mr. and Mrs. Fazzino were greeted at the East Wing of the White House with a beautiful outdoor string ensemble, followed by a second one on the stairwell leading to the dining hall. Uniformed military also lined the route. President Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden hosted the event, warmly greeting the Fazzino’s along with the rest of their guests.
During the reception, WHHA officials gifted Dr. Jill Biden with a one-of-a-kind reproduction of Fazzino’s The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History. Dr. Biden recognized Fazzino from the podium and pointed out some of the details in the artwork, including the rendition of herself and The President. “It was one of the most surreal experiences of my career,” said Fazzino. “I was so honored to have my artwork presented to the First Lady and being there, you couldn’t help feeling like you were now part of the history of this magnificent place. It was a special evening for me and my wife.” And it was the second time Fazzino was introduced to the Bidens. He previously met The President and First Lady in 2022 celebrating the 75th Anniversary of The US Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots Campaign. “They are so gracious and I am thrilled that they are such fans of my work.”
The day after the unveiling, Charles appeared on Great Day Washington with Kristen Berset and Ellen Bryan for an inside scoop on the commissioned artwork.
Charles Fazzino on Great Day Washington with Kristen Berset and Ellen Bryan.
The People’s House: A White House Experience is now open with Fazzino’s The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History artwork, and mini prints based on the artwork, available for purchase in the gift shop. The limited edition artwork is also for sale through all authorized Fazzino art galleries. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the WHHA in support of their ongoing mission of preserving and sharing White House history with future generations.
Fazzino at the WHHA Donor Event.
Fazzino and “The People’s House: A Quilt of White House History” art collection.
The White House Historical Association is a private, nonprofit, educational organization founded by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy in 1961 to help the White House collect and exhibit the very best artifacts of American history and culture. Today, its mission of acquisition, preservation, research, and education continue through private donations and the sale of its books and products. Visit the WHHA website to learn more about their initiatives and programming.