It was a dark and stormy night when the Friedlanders and Powers dared the elements to attend the opening exhibition of “Warriors Paint” hosted by the Ringling College of Art and Design.
Readers will remember that a few months back the College invited local veterans to send photos, or sit in person, for paintings to be done by students from the College to honor veterans of all wars.
Thirty-eight paintings were exhibited, and we can proudly say that ten of those were of MOAS members. Students were on hand to greet their very own veteran, unfortunately the weather prevented most from attending the reception in their honor.
Ringling College President Dr. Larry Thompson opened the exhibit with words of thanks to students and staff; and praised the veteran community for its service to the country, and its continued support of those in need. Dr. Thompson was surprised and delighted to receive a $10,000 check donated by the Sarasota Military Officers Foundation to benefit the exemplary Veterans Program at the College of Art and Design.
The four of us were honored to meet these young talented artists, many of whom are recent veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan, and members of the dedicated Ringling College staff.
Can you guess who is who in these paintings?