Michelle Obama's Official Portraitist, Nassau Native, Honored

GLEN COVE, NY — The Glen Cove-raised artist who painted Former First Lady Michelle Obama's official portrait was recognized by two Long Island elected officials on Thursday. Glen Cove Assemblymember Charles Lavine and State Senator James Gaughran took a trip to Sharon Sprung's Brooklyn studio to present her with a proclamation.

Sprung's painting of Obama hangs permanently in the White House.

The artist credits the diversity of Glen Cove as a factor in her artistic success.

“Growing up in Glen Cove, in such a diverse community, I was exposed to people of all different ethnic groups and that was part of the beauty of Glen Cove,” she said.

“When Michelle saw my portfolio, I think she saw that I painted all different kinds of people and that comes from my roots in Glen Cove.”

Lavine echoed Sprung's thoughts about Glen Cove.

“That’s what Glen Cove is all about. Sharon is a remarkably talented artist. I am so proud of what she has accomplished and that she represents the diversity of the community.”