Former US President George W. Bush puts brush to canvas, unveiling a new exhibit on a familiar subject --- world leaders --- undeterred by jibes, joking criticism from his family.

Starting today, his Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas are featuring an exhibit of his portraits - ranging from Russian President Vladimir Putin to the Dalai Lama.

Bush says he had no interest in painting until he left the White House.

He's quoted saying: "I wanted to make sure the last chapters of my life were full, and painting, it turns out, has helped occupy not only space but opened my mind."

He says his favourite painting is this one of his father - a piece that made him teary-eyed while working on.

The critics, at least the ones in Bush's family have already weighed in.

Former first lady Laura Bush said the portrait of her -- quote -- "still needs some work."

His mother Barbara Bush joked that she won't be sitting for a portrait any time soon.

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