Main Gallery

Ulysses S Grant

Ulysses S. Grant’s legacy lies in his steadfast commitment to preserving the Union and promoting equality. As the Union’s commanding general, he helped end slavery, and as president, he defended the civil and political rights of formerly enslaved people by supporting the 14th and 15th Amendments. Under his leadership, over 2,000 Black Americans were elected to local, state, and federal offices as he used federal power to suppress white supremacist violence, including the Ku Klux Klan. Despite challenges during his presidency, Grant’s dedication to Reconstruction and equal citizenship established him as a key champion of a more inclusive American democracy.

In this 11"x14" oil on canvas panel, I attempt to capture General Grant's unwavering presence with the empathetic mood in which he lead his army, treated surrendering enemies, and drove Reconstruction once he became our 18th president.

The Charm of Ronald Reagan

President Reagan's charm, wit, and ability to communicate effectively resonated with nearly all Americans in the 1980's. He was a president able to work across the aisle and bring about impactful economic change and strengthen national defense. Although President Reagan transformed U.S. politics, shifting it rightward—his 1980 landslide election and 1984 "50-state victory", he also signed the 1986 immigration reform granting amnesty to 3 million undocumented immigrants. While his increase in national debt is controversial, his defense spending helped peacefully bring about the collapse of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War. President Reagan finished his last term with a 4.5% GDP and inflation and unemployment levels at historic lows. Polls continue to affirm his enduring popularity among most Americans who lived during his presidency.

In this 7"x5" oil on canvas panel, I was inspired by a popular photo of Ronald Reagan in his classic cowboy hat on his California ranch. In this painting, I attempt to capture the president's famous glow and charm that made him likeable and appealing to Americans of all political persuasions.

Rev Martin Luther King Jr

Through his leadership, courage and sacrifice, Reverend Martin Luther King Jr, championed the civil rights movement through his powerful nonviolent protests and speeches. He helped end legal segregation, changed public attitudes about race, and expanded voting rights. Reverend King's legacy for America is the enduring idea that America must live up to our promise of equality and justice for all.

In this 9"x12" oil on canvas panel, I attempt to capture Reverend King's thoughtful image reflecting on an incomplete writing of the word, "Equality". Is complete equality achievable? If so, what more can we do, as Americans, to complete the writing and fulfill Reverend King's dream?