Local artist’s work goes to the White House

May 18, 2009

Obamanos mug.

George Moscona of Rio Communities was one of 10 New Mexico activists who were allowed a special behind-the-scenes meeting with President Barack Obama after his town hall in Rio Rancho last week.

Moscona, who coordinates the Valencia Community Action Network (VCAN), met with Obama to discuss community organizing around Obama’s national agenda, particularly healthcare reform.

While meeting with Obama, Moscona gave the president a pottery “Obamanos” mug crafted by Jan Pacifico of Tome Gallery. Pacifico said she’s been selling the cups in the gallery and online since the election in November.

Obama liked the cup, Moscona said, and instructed a Secret Service agent to make sure First Lady Michelle Obama got to see it when they got it back to the White House.

Pacifico said she thought it would be great to try to get the artwork to Obama, but never thought it would actually happen.

“I’m so excited. I can’t believe it,” Pacifico said. “It’s such a kick.”

Posted in: Archive