Eternal Voices: A Tribute to Courage and Memory

Standing tall in the image is the  Tower of Voices , a stunning, minimalist structure that embodies the voices of the 40 passengers and crew members who bravely fought back that day. It is a monument to their courage, each chime in the wind a reminder of lives lost and valor shown. I included this element to symbolize not only the physical space of the memorial but the intangible echoes of these individuals’ lasting impact.  

Surrounding the memorial is a  Field of Wildflowers , represented here by blooming sunflowers, which adds a layer of serenity and hope to the composition. This land is not barren; it is full of life and remembrance. The contrast between the natural beauty of the flowers and the heaviness of the memorial's history reminds me of how life continues and grows even in the shadow of tragedy.  

The  Curved Memorial Wall , engraved with the names of the 40 passengers and crew, arcs around the image like an arm of remembrance, enclosing visitors in a space of reflection. This wall stands as a permanent reminder of the day when ordinary citizens became extraordinary heroes.  

In the background,  Visitors and Park Rangers are depicted, showing the importance of remembering and retelling the story of this event. People are drawn to this sacred ground to connect with history, honor the sacrifice made, and ensure the memory of those on Flight 93 endures.  

The  Blue Sky and Clouds overhead create a sense of openness and peace. The sky, vast and endless, reflects the freedom those aboard Flight 93 fought to preserve. The subtle transition from light to dark shades in the sky represents the transition from the somberness of loss to the hope that remembrance brings.  

When creating this piece, my focus was on portraying both the monumental significance of the memorial and the emotional depth that lingers here. The colors are deliberate: blue represents reflection and calm, while the earthy tones of the field and wall evoke a sense of grounding and connection to the earth, to the land on which these heroes made their final stand. The touches of green and yellow in the wildflowers represent life and renewal, suggesting that from this sacrifice, hope and resilience continue to flourish.  

Through this work, I aim to convey the weight of history intertwined with the beauty of nature, reminding us that while the events of 9/11 were a tragedy, they also gave rise to stories of profound courage. This memorial, and this art, are here to make sure we never forget.