“Out of Many, One”

The inspiration for this mural is based on our Nation’s motto, E Pluribus Unum, which is Latin for “Out of Many, One.” It was featured on the original 1776 design of the Great Seal of the United States and was formally adopted by the U.S. Congress as our Nation’s official motto in 1782 to remind us that from the original thirteen colonies emerged a single nation; a diverse nation, made up of people from all corners of the globe and from all walks of life who seek opportunity, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Our nation and its fundamental rights have persevered, protected by our brave military who in giving of themselves, some sacrificing all, allow us these freedoms which we cannot take for granted. Our armed forces are equally diverse and so too, out of many, they are one.

My design for the VFW Post 1676 mural is intended to express my sincerest thanks and appreciation by recognizing all the men and women who have served and to those still serving in our military’s six branches: Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy, and Space Force. The red poppy came to symbolize the blood shed by those who fought and those who continue to fight for our country following the publication of the wartime poem, “In Flanders Fields,” written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, M.D. while serving on the front line in WWI. The side door to the VFW is framed by a poppy, reminding everyone to never forget. The vertical ribbons in between the portraits represent the military’s highest awards that distinguish those individuals for specific acts or service in foreign wars. The ribbons left to right are: The Medal of Honor, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Prisoner of War.

When it came to the individual portraits, I chose to only show half of a face because I wanted to disrupt the inherent biases in human recognition so that the viewer doesn’t subconsciously assess familiarity of the individual faces but is instead drawn to the subject’s eye where the viewer is subtly reflected, capturing a moment of mutual attention and connection. My philosophy is being seen is a basic human need, and if we take the time to look someone in the eye to the point we see our own reflection, that connection goes both ways in seeing and being seen.

During the two-month painting process, I was privileged to meet many veterans, their family members, and those who are still serving today. It was rewarding to get to know them, to hear their stories and to see them point out the medals they were awarded. They are the great people who served and protected our nation, our rights and freedoms, who now live in our beautiful community and surrounding area. Projects like the VFW mural make me feel more connected, and proud of Detroit Lakes, MN.

It’s important that we see and are seen. Take the time, because it only makes us stronger. For out of many, we are truly one.