THE OBAMA ART MUSEUM, LLC

Hieroglyphics on the walls of Egypt was once believed to be some secret magical wisdom understood and used only by Egyptian priests. This belief remained until scholars discovered the symbols described sounds; the pictures indicated words or syllables and it became a language to convey ideas. Egyptians continued use of the ideographic and syllabic systems, even after alphabets were discovered. Likewise, when Barack Hussein Obama, II was first heard, many pondered the representation of such a name. Onomatologists suggested the full title meant blessed man soul. The Obama label now signifies a presidency, characterizes the ideal role model world wide, dawns a generation (O Generation), markets software (Obama Development) and now a museum.

Sitting around the kitchen table on a Saturday afternoon in August, 2009, an opportunity was provided to interview Christopher Terrell Moore, CEO and founder of the Obama Art Museum, plus two team members. A native of North Carolina, he describes himself as an artist with a given gift because there was no formal schooling just something he was always able to do. An entrepreneur, he has owned several businesses, a Concessions and http://artbychristopherterrell.com/. Phyllis Moore, Chief Officer presents another description of his character, saying "Terrell is quiet, laid back, reserved, articulate, creative, very open-minded and full of ideas. This project was a big reach but I am very proud though not really surprised because he is the type of person who follows his creativity, reaches out of the box and comes back with something very positive or even something no one else might have thought of and captures it."

When asked why Obama Museum and not Terrell's?; the pecan colored, poker faced, poised, stylish figure explained in a matter of fact manner, "It's Obama's museum because of who he represents to America. This place preserves the first time in American history all races came together and elected an African American President. I chose him because it was a time in history I wanted to capture with art. It is almost like hieroglyphics on the walls in Egypt, a photo in time or a time capsule of America's first. Every time has a period where something great happens and it is an opportunity for artists like me to seize the moment with art. One hundred years from now, it will be the only place where visitors can enter, witness historical unity of one people who accomplished a common objective and witness true change in the American culture."

Descriptively, the museum's main backdrop will contain pieces from artists all over the world of different styles, textures and mediums. Each creator adds their own creativity in the way they vision him. For example, one Brooklyn, NY mosaic artist took time to chop large and small coins; a metaphor that represent states won by Obama and McCain. A fabric artist is going to submit a piece. The Lincoln-Obama photo combined Obama's image and Lincoln; and another production features the Beatles's haircut. Some 1200 people have visited this web-site; join them at http://obamaartmuseum.com/ to view other unique creations.

Another component of the museum will be a place where people can come in to experience change within themselves. Future plans include classrooms for creative writing, poetry, dance and art classes. Weekend events will include concerts where local musicians will be invited to perform and artists exhibit their works. This environment is intended to bring the change out of people. Terrell comments, "many individuals are creative but it is sort of pinned up inside of them. This will be an opportunity for them to release it."

Earlica Forte, Media Coordinator says, "this museum teaches art hooks periods of time and periods of time have been named because of art. It will inspire children who might not want to go to a museum but because it is named after Obama, they will say, mommy, daddy, I want to go there. It makes the family look at museums in a different way. It is not a political move, just a name everyone recognizes and relates. Too, I think it will teach about unity, that is, the way we can come together to make things happen and make change happen. It inspires Americans to ask how can I help, what can I do? It will be a place where assorted creative sides are shown and appreciated. It makes people excited!"

And how can you participate in this historic movement? Terrell shares, "to date, we have made a call for artists to donate their works and have been successful as donors all over the country are making contributions which are displayed on the website. Other promotions are made through art shows, post cards and word of mouth. We are in search for a brick and mortar building located in an area near other museums. Everyone can become involved by purchasing a one-year membership. These dues will pay for a brick which is an engraved name plate to be hung on the wall of the museum. Plus, it will allow free tour access of the museum; discounts for shows, events and classes."

Through observation, study and perseverance, creativity fuels progress in societies. Hieroglyphics became the cornerstone of the Egyptians culture of communication. A grassroots coalition of youth who defied many political stereotypes ushered the first African American President with the funny sounding name into office. Terrell's crafty imagination led him to freeze this event for future generations and will challenge all visitors to make change within their lives. Art by definition is skill in something in a form that is satisfying in a special way for direct experience and remind people of a time they want to remember. The Obama Art Museum definitely contains that commemorative interest!