Fourth of July

Eleven-color linoleum block print

18 x 21 inches

We always celebrated the Fourth of July, attending our hometown parade, sharing a picnic with friends and family in the shade of a great tree. The apex of our day, however, was those glorious, loud fireworks announcing that through the rockets "red glare, the bombs bursting in air" streamed proof that our status as a free and sovereign nation remained un-compromised. Two of our sons played the trombone, and with their friends playing other instruments, brought live music into our festivities. Since freedom stands as our greatest heritage, this day above all others taught our seven children appreciation for the sacrifices of brave men and women which purchased it and for the gift itself. As a result of our family tradition, our children all actively enjoy and engage their citizenship.

In this eleven-color print, (product of one hundred hours of carving and printing), I attempt to capture the rousing energy of that experience. The flag reaches dynamically into the center, pulling the eye toward the trombone, its player, then back to the drum and drummer. A cymbal and bass viol complete the martial music theme, as fireworks thrill the rich black sky behind them. I left the marks characteristic of linoleum block printing, tracing the path of my tool and adding to the excitement like exclamations responding to the stirring sounds and sights of a favorite holiday.