The Painter and the President : Gilbert Stuart’s Brush with George Washington

George Washingtonhatedhaving his portrait painted, but as president of the United States, he knew his image needed to live on. This nonfiction picture book explores how artist Gilbert Stuart created Washingtons most lasting and recognized portraitthe one thats used on the one-dollar bill.

George Washington and artist Gilbert Stuart didnt always see eye-to-eye, but both men knew the importance of legacy and the power of art. Though George disliked having his portrait paintedwhich took days and days to completehe knew his place in history would require people to know his face. Fortunately, Gilbert Stuarts unique way of painting didnt compel his subjects to sit for hours on endin fact, he encouraged them to move around and even bring friends to chat with. Capturing the soul of each subject, his portraits were unlike any other artists. And Gilbert Stuarts one-of-a-kind portrait of Washington stands the test of timeits the one thats used on the one-dollar bill.