The Mama Ayesha's Restaurant Presidential Mural

This mural on the exterior wall of Mama Ayesha's Restaurant displays eleven US presidents from Eisenhower through Obama with the restaurant's founder positioned in the center. The artwork also incorporates recognizable Washington landmarks in the background surrounding the presidential portraits.

Artist Karla Rodas created this mural in 2009 with support from Washington's arts commission and federal arts funding. The project emerged during a period when public art initiatives received significant backing in the city.

The mural displays portraits of eleven American presidents alongside Washington landmarks like the White House and Capitol Building. This combination ties national leadership history directly to the city's skyline.

This mural is viewable from the street and can be seen free of charge without entering the restaurant. It is best viewed during daylight hours and remains accessible year-round.

The restaurant's founder, Mama Ayesha Abraham, stands at the center of the composition positioned between Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan. This placement honors the local businesswoman as a central figure alongside national leaders.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 2009

Creator: Karla Rodas

GPS coordinates: 38.92350,-77.04690

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:58