The Heart of the Union: A Tribute to Lincoln’s Legacy

This artwork blends the past and the present, symbolizing how the ideals Lincoln fought for still ripple through today’s America. The American flag flows gently in the background, representing not just patriotism, but the fragility of freedom—something that, like the flag itself, requires care, strength, and unity to keep it flying. The flag’s red stripes speak to the sacrifices made to preserve the Union, the blood shed during the Civil War, and the strength of a nation emerging from conflict. The blue hues represent hope and perseverance, a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always a path forward.

Lincoln’s watchful gaze commands attention, his posture conveying the weight of responsibility that he carried during his presidency. I wanted his calm yet firm demeanor to serve as a reminder of the strength it takes to lead during times of division and uncertainty. The columns of the memorial surrounding him suggest stability and endurance, much like the ideals Lincoln championed—justice, liberty, and the preservation of the Union. In their towering presence, I see not just the physical strength of the structure, but the moral fortitude that Lincoln embodied.

Creating this piece allowed me to reflect on how history shapes us, and how figures like Lincoln become more than just leaders—they become symbols of perseverance and hope. The Civil War scenes subtly woven into the background represent the many lives touched by Lincoln’s leadership, the soldiers and citizens who endured one of the most trying times in American history. Their silent presence within the image connects the past struggles to our present day, suggesting that the journey for unity is ongoing.

The rich colors I’ve used in this artwork are designed to invoke emotional depth. The blue tones in the background evoke a sense of calm and reflection, inviting the viewer to pause and consider the weight of history. In contrast, the red hues in the foreground remind us of the passion and sacrifice that comes with the fight for equality and justice. Together, these colors create a balance between peace and conflict, highlighting the dual nature of Lincoln’s presidency—a time of war that ultimately led to peace and reconciliation.

For me, creating this piece was not just an artistic journey, but a personal reflection on the power of leadership and what it means to stand for something greater than oneself. Lincoln’s legacy is not just one of triumph, but one of struggle and sacrifice, and in this artwork, I wanted to capture the complexity of his role in American history. The flowing American flag, draped across the composition, symbolizes the continued influence of Lincoln’s ideals in modern times. It represents the ongoing struggle for unity in a country still divided in many ways, but united in its aspiration for freedom and equality.

The subtlety of historical figures intertwined with the fabric of the flag reminds us that history is never far behind—that we carry the memories of those who fought for freedom with us, and that their sacrifices are woven into the very fabric of our nation. Lincoln’s presence in this piece serves as a reminder of strength, not just physical but moral, the kind that has the power to guide a nation through its darkest days.

In reflecting on this work, I am reminded of the power of resilience—how even in the face of division and conflict, there is always a path toward healing and unity. Lincoln’s leadership exemplified this belief, and through this image, I hope to convey that his message of unity and perseverance is timeless. The Lincoln Memorial may be a place of quiet reflection, but it is also a symbol of action and progress. Just as Lincoln led with a steady hand, I believe we, too, can find strength in his example to continue the work of creating a more perfect Union.

This artwork, for me, is a tribute not only to Abraham Lincoln, but to the enduring ideals that make the United States a beacon of hope. It is a visual reminder that while the fight for equality and justice is never easy, it is always worth pursuing. Lincoln’s quiet strength, captured in marble and immortalized in history, continues to inspire generations, and it is my hope that this piece evokes the same sense of hope and resilience that Lincoln himself embodied.