State Dept Sells Kehinde Wiley Painting | Philadelphia News

The State Department is eyeing a Kehinde Wiley painting — the same artist who did Obama’s portrait — for sale after calling it “woke” and “aesthetically terrifying,” despite its commission with taxpayer dollars and cultural diplomacy mission. The piece, once displayed at the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic, was hastily hidden behind a tarp with an American flag. Officials, including the ambassador, celebrated its removal to “Make Art Great Again,” while critics question the sudden politicization of art meant to build global trust. Wiley, honored by the State Department in 2015, now faces scrutiny as the agency shifts toward patriotism over cultural exchange. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/001f46852bb6ab53