“Portraits of Courage”

What’s a former U.S. president to do when he retires and no longer has the weight of the world on his shoulders? Following his tenure in the Oval Office, President George W. Bush picked up painting. After learning of the artistic pursuits of another one-time political juggernaut, the late British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, Bush decided if Churchill could do it so could he, and he began taking classes and honing his skills in earnest. Now, Palm Beachers can view his creations as part of “Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors,” on display at The Society of the Four Arts beginning February 2. This special exhibition features 66 portraits and a mural depicting service members and veterans who have served since 9/11. Bush accompanies each image with a narrative that illuminates the real-life stories behind his expressive brushstrokes.