United for America: Trump and Vance in the New Wave of Patriotism

Donald Trump, seen saluting the crowd in one pose, is a figure who has long been at the forefront of the America First movement. His salute is symbolic of his leadership, a gesture to his supporters that he remains unwavering in his mission to defend and protect the ideals they hold dear. Trump, born on June 14, 1946, built his career in real estate before turning to television and politics, where his rise to power shocked the political establishment in 2016. His presidency was defined by economic nationalism, tax reforms, and a focus on border security—policies that appealed to millions of Americans who felt left behind by the political elite.
Standing beside Trump is J.D. Vance, a newcomer to the political arena, but one who has garnered significant attention for his populist views. Vance, born on August 2, 1984, grew up in a working-class family in Ohio, and his bestselling memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” became a cultural touchstone for understanding the struggles of rural America. His 2022 Senate campaign was built on the principles of economic reform, anti-globalism, and a commitment to working-class values, which align closely with Trump’s vision. Initially skeptical of Trump, Vance eventually recognized the power of the populist movement and embraced the former president’s endorsement, securing his victory.
The presence of the Bald Eagle, draped in the American flag, represents the strength and patriotism at the heart of the movement. The eagle is more than just a symbol of the nation—it embodies the spirit of independence, resilience, and pride that both Trump and Vance aim to foster in their political campaigns. For their supporters, the eagle represents the promise of freedom, while the flag represents the nation they are working to protect.
The red, white, and blue color palette is a powerful visual element in this artwork. Red symbolizes the energy, passion, and action that define the populist movement. It’s the color of rallies, of crowds fired up by the message of America First. White signifies the purity of their ideals—the belief that America can return to the principles on which it was founded, free from corruption and global influence. Blue represents loyalty—to the nation, to the flag, and to the values that both Trump and Vance espouse.
The crowd of supporters in the background reflects the populist energy that fuels this movement. Trump’s base remains fiercely loyal, and Vance, through his alignment with Trump, has tapped into this same grassroots enthusiasm. The crowd isn’t just there to support the men on stage—they represent the movement itself, a force that believes in the restoration of America’s greatness.
The composition of this piece is designed to highlight the continuity of leadership between Trump and Vance. Trump’s figure looms large, a reminder of the political power he still holds, even after leaving office. Vance, standing at the podium, represents the future of the movement, the next generation of leaders who will carry forward the populist vision. Their partnership is a symbol of unity, a testament to the idea that political influence doesn’t end when a term in office does—it continues through the leaders who come next.
In creating this piece, I wanted to evoke the emotional connection that many of Trump and Vance’s supporters feel. The Bald Eagle and American flag are central to that feeling—symbols of national pride and strength. For these supporters, the “Save America” message is more than a campaign slogan; it’s a call to action, a plea to defend the nation they love from forces they believe are eroding its values. The energy in the crowd, the intensity of the colors, and the powerful imagery of the eagle all contribute to a sense of urgency and hope.
On a personal level, this artwork reflects my thoughts on the continuity of political movements. Trump’s influence didn’t end with his presidency—it extended into a movement that has continued to grow, one that finds new leaders like Vance to carry it forward. The patriotic symbols in the image—the eagle, the flag, the colors—are reflections of the deep emotional connection that populist leaders have with their base. These symbols are not just about policy; they’re about identity—who we are as a nation, and who we want to be.
The overlapping images of Trump and Vance represent the passing of the torch—the idea that political power is not static, but constantly evolving, moving from one leader to the next. Trump, with his salute, is a figure of the past and present, while Vance, speaking passionately at the podium, represents the future of populist politics. Together, they create a powerful image of patriotism and leadership, a reminder that the movement they represent is one that continues to shape the future of America.
This artwork, for me, is about legacy—how one leader’s influence can continue through another, and how movements like this one are built on shared values and patriotism. It’s a reflection of the power of symbolism, of how the Bald Eagle, the American flag, and the crowd of supporters create a narrative of unity, strength, and endurance.