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 This veteran-inspired painting has gone home.

"Words of an Airman" is an abstract collage acrylic painting I created to honor Charlie, my father-in-law, and his extensive military service in the early 1940s. I used copies of the actual words from Charlie's WWII mission journal as the background of the piece. Charlie was a top gunner on a B-24 bomber who flew more than 47 missions from New Guinea. His meticulous records include dates, bombing sites, mission lengths, and the names of the servicemen he flew with, along with the ground crew who supported the plane.

During my recent show at the Port Warwick Art and Sculpture Festival in Newport News, this painting received a great deal of attention. The Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads area, is home to many active-duty and retired service members. I was able to honor so many veterans that weekend simply by sharing the painting and its story. People were drawn to the history and the way Charlie's own words were integrated into the artwork. They noticed the rotation of the propeller and the red, white, and blue colors striped like the American flag. They smiled, appreciated what they were seeing, and accepted my gratitude for their service. This painting became the pillar of the festival for me. Every show has a silver lining, this one was this particular painting.   I am so happy I took this one along. 

As the show came to an end, I happily discovered that Charlie's great-grandson-a 7-year Marine veteran-lives just a few miles from the venue. Today the painting hangs in his home, shared with his wife and son. Charlie's great-great-great-grandson now lives with this piece of family history. Thank you for your service, I said again.

The original has found its home with Charlie's family. High-quality prints are available if you'd like this piece for your own wall.

View "Words of an Airman" and print options here: [Words of an Airman]

The fall has been full of shows and activities. If this story resonates, you're welcome to browse my current originals and prints, or simply reply and tell me what kind of piece you'd like to see next. I'm always open to ideas and commissions that honor personal stories, history, or the people who matter to you.

I'd love to hear from you.

Kindly,
Patty

[ Available Original Paintings]
[Print Words of an Airman]