After detailing how former governor Mario Cuomo is reluctant to sit for his governor's portrait, the NY Times takes a look at George Pataki's new governor's portrait. Painted by Andrew Lattimore at a cost of around $50,000 (not paid by the state but the former governor's campaign funds or PAC), Pataki is shown standing in front of the Hudson River, wearing a suit (he was initially going to wear jeans with a jacket and tie) and U.S. and NY State flag pins. Lattimore explained why he had Pataki looking "towards the sun... The light, the future, he’s looking towards the warmth and hope of what tomorrow can bring." The subject likes it, though Pataki hates one thing: "I look at the smile and go eww. I know it’s crooked all the time — not me — the smile.” As for whether Cuomo will ever sit for his painting, Pataki offered "governor-speak," "“I’m sure when he deems it appropriate, he’ll do it." more ›

It's been 14 years since Mario Cuomo left the Governor's Mansion, but he still hasn't taken time out to sit for his official Governor's Portrait. According to the NY Times, while successor George Pataki's portrait will be unveiled next year, Cuomo is a bit more modest. He "suggested he found the whole idea pompous. He also said he had no patience for posing: 'I went to electric razors so I would not have to look at myself in the morning.'" But the State is impatient --and may chose a image of Cuomo that might not be flattering to avoid having a "12-year blank" in the gallery of governors past. Illustrator Thomas Fuchs offers some illustrations of Cuomo in the style of Warhol, Mondrian, Picasso and R. Crumb, and CityRoom is welcoming readers' submissions of Cuomo portraits, too. Slightly related: Even former NJ Governor James McGreevey has his official portrait! more ›