Independence Day Art
The celebration of Independence Day is an important part of the American people. It is celebrated politically, culturally and historically. The Independence Day celebration reminds the American people of the struggles they underwent to achieve their Independence. The celebrations which occur in all the towns are often marked by parades, public political speeches and viewing of art. The art is important for reminding the people and especially in communities the heritage that belongs to Americans today.
In the spirit of celebrating Independence day through art, three paintings have been selected. However, with the opportunity for just one to be used there is a need to evaluate the art piece which will deliver the most positive impact for the community. The three suggested paintings are John Trumbull’s Declaration of Independence July 4th 1776, Honor and Allegiance by Jim Dily and Patriot’s Porch by Alexis Lavine. These paintings can be evaluated on the basis of what they have to offer to the community and the one which has the most to offer suggested for exhibition.
The painting in 1795 by an American John Trumbull is a great tribute to the men responsible for the signing of the declaration of independence. Without these men American history might be very different today. Culturally the painting came at a time when America was taking stock of its history and focusing on its important history as a nation (Weir 56). For this reason, it is important for the community to focus on the real reason for the celebrations and understand why America has the freedoms and rights it has today. In the midst of parties and fireworks it can be tempting to lose focus and take politics today as they are. However, by focusing on the beginning of America it is easier to remind the American people that there are ideals which hold the country together and which form the driving force of the nation.
The art piece shows the portraits of the key figures in the signing of the Declaration (Weir 55). This could be an important opportunity for parents to educate their children and give them lessons on the importance of these men. It could be the focus of community and family discussions not just on these men but on the debates that were there and the reasons why some of the men did not sign the declaration. Politically this art piece calls for politicians to uphold American values and also set course for the future generations.
Honor and Allegiance by Jim Dily is a paining which inspires patriotism. It depicts a young boy with his hand to his heart in a solemn pledge (Christ Centered Art 1). This painting pays tribute to the pledge that Americans make to their country. The painting can be linked to Independence Day in that through the declaration of independence America became a sovereign nation which deserves the servitude and loyalty of its people. However, much as this art piece is appropriate for Independence Day, it does not have potential for similar impact as the Trumbull’s art piece. The artist Jim Dily painted it in 1986 in honor of the pledge more than independence reality. Culturally it does not have a significant place in American history.
Politically the art can raise conflict. This is because there are those who are increasingly opposed to the pledge of allegiance. According to Helderman, opposition to the pledge of allegiance has been increasing as religious and atheism feel a need to forgo it (3). Because of this the art may cause more division in the community than harmony. The fact that the figure in the art is a boy may also put off some feminist who might view it as a perpetuation of gender discrimination. Although women may not have played a publicly recognized role in the declaration of independence, the affairs of the nation are not the prerogative of men. So, even though the art by Trumbull depicts men only it is historically accurate and therefore acceptable to many.
Patriot’s Porch by Alexis Lavine is a painting specifically depicting the independence day. It captures the independence spirit on what is a hot summer day. It has a flag hanging on a porch decorated with some flowers (VPF 2). The painting was done after the medical illustrator Lavine started doing water colors. She has continued to paint and her work can be seen in many Mid-Atlantic galleries (VPF 3). The art piece inspires patriotism with the flag and depicts a way of honoring country honor in a contemporary world. However, the art does not have a deep connection to Independence day. Consequently, it cannot have the same impact as the Trumbull’s art. The art piece does not show something concrete and is likely to be a sight that many people have seen in their own homes where flags are hang.
The Trumbull art piece captures a moment in the nation’s history. Trumbull wanted to perpetuate the belief he had that the signing of the document had been done collectively. However, that was not the case. According to Thomas Jefferson, most of the signatures were affixed post submission of the document to congress. However, this art is a wonderful reminder of the coming together of these men who believed in America’s independence and who had a vision for the nation. Historical accuracy is not important in delivering this message of a united front by the forefathers.
While each of the art pieces has a lot to offer and can be considered a contender for the Independence day exhibition the Trumbull’s art piece offers the most. It has great historical perspective on the Independence Day. It’s also a cultural basis. It captures the cultural reality of the time and the nation during this important phase. The themes of Trumbull’s art also communicates a lot more background to the Independence day than the other art pieces which could be related to other themes. This makes Trumbull’s art piece most appropriate for the occasion.
Trumbull art comprised of political histories. He painted other works relating to war in American history. His works are rich in capturing this history and preserving it for the nation. His recognition as a valid artist lends credit to his work and he has done portraits of some of American leaders like John Adams and President Washington. This exhibition could thus pay tribute to an American artist who was keen to celebrate America’s history and realities. The declaration of Independence is such a monumental entity in America’s history that it can never go out of value or lose interest. It is at the heart of the American nation.
Conclusion
Using this art piece by Trumbull will solidify its presence and inspire the community young and old to remember where they are coming from and to base their choices today on where America wants to be. As a member of the Columbus Community Action Board, I would highly recommend John Trumbull’s Declaration of Independence July 4th 1776 as the choice for the community gallery exhibition, as part of an Independence Day celebration.
Works Cited
Christ Centered Art. Honor and Allegiance. 1998-2011. Web. 26th October, 2011.
http://www.christcenteredmall.com/stores/art/daly/honor-and-allegiance.htm
Helderman, Rosalind S. Devoted to God, but not the Pledge. 2005. Web. 26th
October, 2011.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wpdyn/content/article/2005/07/03/AR2005070300895.html
VP Foundation. Independence Day Prize. 2011. Web. 26th October, 2011.
http://www.thevpfoundation.org/drawing.htm
Weir, John F. John Trumbull: A Brief Sketch of His Life to which is added a Catalog
of His Works. New York: Cornell University Library, 2009. Print.
