[mnehring]

OK, ignore my previous post about misidentification. I checked on the Smithsonian's site where the painting is normally kept and apparently, described it as "Alma Thomas, the first African-American woman to have a solo show at the Whitney Museum, was linked to the color-field school that had developed in Washington, D.C. in the 1960s. In Watusi, Thomas is trying to mix together different styles such as Henri Matisse’s cutouts. “She was also interested in the idea that color could generate musical correspondence,” Brougher says. “It was more than creating an abstract painting but trying to create music out of painting.”

Basically, it was an admitted study of Matisse.

Probably not as big if a deal as is what first appears. Read more: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/Decorating-the-White-House-with-Smithsonian-Art.html?c=y&page=9#ixzz0TNLungOn

[kabar]

Basically, it was an admitted study of Matisse

study=copy

[Drango]

I don’t believe it was a “study” of Matisse. More like a rip-off.

[CharlesWayneCT]

Actually, having read this entire thread, I’m beginning to think that the real story here is about the Obamas:

Apparently, this artist has a unique style, and I liked the other piece shown here from her. But when the Obamas went to choose a piece to honor this African-American artist, the picture they chose was:

A copy of some white guy’s art.