Chuck Close: I have to say, having been alive and a young artist when Kennedy was president, there was a change in the national mood that may happen with Obama as well. There was real pride of place that came when **** would play in the White House and people loved Jackie’s wardrobe, and the elegance; and the intellectual activities were appreciated.

I have more faith that something will happen in the Obama Administration.

[George W.] Bush was also a product of Prep Schools and an Ivy League education, and his “Aw shucks, I’m just a shit-kicker from Texas” played well. But he had every advantage in the world, silver spoon; a father a President; grandfather very powerful. If that’s not elitism, then I don’t know what is.

Recorded on: February 5, 2009