Proclaim Liberty: Echoes of Freedom in Philadelphia

At the center of the artwork stands the Liberty Bell, cracked but unbroken, much like the story of America itself. The crack represents the imperfections of democracy, the struggles, and the ongoing fight for freedom, yet it remains resilient, a reminder that the quest for liberty is an ongoing journey. The inscription on the bell, “Proclaim LIBERTY Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof,” is a call to action, not just for the founders of the nation but for every generation that follows. This phrase, taken from the Bible (Leviticus 25:10), was chosen to echo the principles of justice and equality, timeless ideals that still resonate deeply today.

Surrounding the Liberty Bell is the presence of Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed, making Philadelphia a cradle of freedom. The connection between these two icons—the bell and the hall—speaks to the interwoven history of a country fighting for its independence. The subtle figures in the background, shadowy but present, suggest the many generations of people who have stood before the bell, absorbing its message and adding their own struggles and victories to the ongoing narrative of freedom.

The colors used in this artwork play a significant role in setting the emotional tone. The vibrant reds and blues of the American flag flow through the background, symbolizing patriotism, sacrifice, and the ideals the country was built upon. The purple and pink hues add a layer of dreaminess, reminding us that while the Liberty Bell represents history, the concept of freedom is ever-evolving. The colors create a sense of fluidity, showing how liberty is not static but something that shifts and grows with time, much like the country itself.

The bold purple hues symbolize nobility, transformation, and a sense of reverence for the weight of history. This color gives the bell a majestic quality, almost as if it is glowing from within, radiating its message outwards to the viewer. The blue tones evoke a feeling of calmness and stability, reflecting the idea that liberty, though hard-won, is also about peace and justice. In contrast, the red hues remind us of the struggles and sacrifices that were made in the name of freedom—the bloodshed and the battles that were fought to ensure that the bell’s message could be heard by all.

As I worked on this piece, I couldn’t help but reflect on the timelessness of the Liberty Bell’s message. Though the bell no longer rings, its symbolic sound echoes across centuries. This artwork, for me, became a meditation on the idea that freedom is never fully won, but something that must be continually fought for and protected. The bell, with its imperfection and history, reminds us that while progress has been made, the journey is far from over.

The flowing American flag in the background is more than just a patriotic symbol—it represents the unity of a nation bound together by shared ideals, even in times of division. The stars on the flag, faint but present, are like guiding lights, representing the hope that the dream of freedom and equality will continue to guide the country forward.

In creating this image, I wanted to convey that the Liberty Bell’s message is as relevant today as it was at the time of the American Revolution. Its inscription calls on us to proclaim liberty for all, a task that remains unfinished. The fracture in the bell is a reminder that liberty is fragile, that it must be handled with care, but also that its message remains strong even in the face of adversity.

This piece is a reminder that freedom is not guaranteed—it must be continually proclaimed, protected, and preserved. The Liberty Bell, though cracked, has not lost its power, just as the ideals of liberty, justice, and equality have not diminished over time. They remain just as vital, just as necessary, as they did when the bell first rang out.

Through this artwork, I aim to remind viewers of the importance of reflection—to look back on where we’ve come from, to understand the sacrifices that have been made, and to carry the message of liberty forward. The vivid colors, the iconic imagery, and the historical weight of the piece serve as a visual call to action: to never stop proclaiming liberty, and to ensure that its message rings true for all.