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, 163 Black Americans were elected to Congress, and 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.

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?