WASHINGTON — Sharp criticism from the White House as they unveil the updated medal for Kennedy Center Honors recipients.

In a social media message posted to X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday, the White House touted the new design donated by Tiffany and Co. It includes a circular gold medal and blue ribbon.

The post called the previous design "tacky."

According to the Kennedy Center, the original design was created by graphic designer Ivan Chermayeff. Noting the rainbow-colored ribbon symbolized the versatility of skills in the field of performing arts.

The Baturin family has been putting together the awards — also known as laurels — by hand since 1978.

"We took it from a piece of paper and architectural design from my dad, and created what they used for 47 years," said Laurie Baturi

See Full Page