Elaine de Koonig (1918-1989) was an American artist of the Abstract Expressionism movement. She was married to Willem de Koonig, also a famous artist. Elaine painted many portraits including this one of President John F. Kennedy. She received this commission in 1962. She spent several sessions with him crafting a unique contemporary likeness far from the then photographic standard of her day. She was still working on this project when he was killed. She did not return to painting for months.

Elaine de Koonig felt this work was not a portrait of Kennedy but a glimpse of him before he was taken from us. In bold, bright hues and brushed intention she portrayed his constant work, his energy and his incandescence which people could not see on the black and white televisions of those times. This portrait hangs in the National Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian. She also has pieces included in the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

Elaine de Koonig braved the rules of her day to paint what her heart saw and felt. She gave us this image of a man and helped us know him even after his death. Artists expand the lens of life for us, helping us see what we have and what we have lost. Artists work in the realm of our creator and join in the mystery God will always keep.

In gratitude, faith and hope,

Sandy Prouty
Minister of Children and Families
Montview Church