Pillars of Peace: A Monument to Victory and Unity

The centerpiece of the image is the  Perry’s Victory Memorial , rising majestically against the warm colors of the sky. This column stands at an impressive 352 feet, making it one of the tallest monuments in the United States. It was built to commemorate the American victory in the  Battle of Lake Erie , a decisive naval battle during the  War of 1812 . Perry’s famous words, “We have met the enemy, and they are ours,” resonate through history as a testament to resilience and leadership in the face of overwhelming odds. For me, the monument is more than just a symbol of victory—it is a symbol of peace, as its official name suggests. This is a place where nations come together to honor not only those who fought but also the peace that followed.  

In the foreground, the  silhouette of Commodore Perry stands proudly, representing the naval hero whose strategic leadership secured the American victory. This statue reminds us of the courage and sacrifice required in war, yet its place here—surrounded by symbols of peace—also speaks to the hope that such courage can lead to lasting harmony. As I worked on this piece, I wanted to highlight how history is not just about conflict but about the outcomes we strive for, like peace and understanding. Perry’s figure, bathed in the warm glow of the sunset, stands not only as a warrior but as a peacemaker.  

The  aerial view of the memorial and the surrounding landscape shows the monument nestled against the backdrop of  Lake Erie . The waters are calm and serene, a stark contrast to the violent battles that once raged here. This perspective offers a reminder of how nature endures, healing the scars of war and offering a space for reflection and peace. The rolling green landscape around the memorial invites visitors to walk, reflect, and remember not just the battle but the peace that followed. The monument's location, on  South Bass Island , is a place where history and nature coexist, offering a sense of tranquility and hope.  

The  abstract flowing colors —rich  oranges, yellows, and blues —are meant to evoke both fire and water, destruction and renewal. The  orange and yellow hues suggest the flames of conflict, burning brightly but eventually giving way to the cool, calming  blue tones of peace and reconciliation. These colors flow through the image, representing the passage of time and the way in which war, while destructive, can lead to new beginnings. The soft, swirling shapes add a dreamlike quality, reflecting the way memories of history blend with the present, reminding us that while the past is fixed, its lessons and impacts continue to shape the future.  

The presence of  palm trees and other natural elements in the scene adds a layer of life and growth to the otherwise monumental setting. These elements suggest that while stone and metal may memorialize history, life continues to grow around it. The trees symbolize hope, renewal, and the ongoing journey of peace. For me, the inclusion of nature is essential—it represents the idea that peace, like trees, must be nurtured, cared for, and allowed to grow. It’s a reminder that monuments are not just about looking back at history, but about inspiring us to build a better future.  

Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial was completed in 1915 and stands as a testament not only to the victory of American forces during the  War of 1812 but to the lasting peace between the United States, Great Britain, and Canada. The memorial also serves as a symbol of the enduring friendship between these nations. The  War of 1812 was one of the last major conflicts between the United States and Britain, and this monument serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come since those days of strife. The monument was designated an  International Peace Memorial in recognition of the long-lasting peace that followed the war.  

In creating "Pillars of Peace," I wanted to explore the dualities of war and peace, conflict and harmony. The  Perry Memorial is more than just a reminder of victory—it is a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility for reconciliation. The towering column represents strength and perseverance, while the natural elements—trees, water, and flowing colors—remind us that peace is something we must nurture and protect. Through this artwork, I hope to inspire reflection on the costs of war and the importance of working towards a peaceful and united future.  

This piece is an invitation to remember that even in the aftermath of conflict, there is always the potential for peace. The memorial, like the artwork, stands as a beacon, guiding us toward understanding, unity, and a shared commitment to a better world.