FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 24, 2011
Temple Emanu-El hosts American Icons as part of
September 11 Commemorative Events in San Francisco
Channel Islands, CA—Artist David SchwARTZ will be exhibiting his “American Icon” series of paintings on retired American flags from Aug. 24 through Oct. 17 as part of San Francisco’s city-wide events commemorating the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.
The “American Icons” debuted at the 2007 Biennale in Florence, Italy and have since garnered international acclaim. The impetus for the project came from nine "founding flags" the artist rescued from a trash bag in 2003. He has since received resounding support from numerous sources, including American military veterans, citizens, fire departments, and even former California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger—all of whom have gifted flags for the project.
Since his debut in Italy, SchwARTZ has built a reputation from coast to coast as a patriotic painter. “Each American Icon celebrates an aspect of the American value system that’s worthy of discussion,” said 12th District Assemblymember Fiona Ma. “When we reflect on what America stands for, it’s inspiring to see a contemporary artist whose work triggers meaningful conversations about issues shared by Americans across the country.”
Four paintings from the artist's current collection of 23 pieces will be featured in the Elizabeth S. and Alvin I. Fine Museum at Temple Emanu-El. The exhibit includes three of the original “founding flags” in the series as well as SchwARTZ’s 20th piece in the series, “American Firefighter,” executed on a flag that flew on the hook and ladder of Las Vegas, Nevada Fire Station #3 the year following the Sept. 11 attacks.
SchwARTZ received private instruction at the Gino Conti Studio and the Rhode Island School of Design, both in Providence, and at the Studio Art Center International in Florence, Italy. He holds a bachelor’s degree in studio art/printmaking from the University of Massachusetts and also studied at the University of Hawaii.
Temple Emanu-El, located at 2 Lake Street in San Francisco, is the oldest Jewish synagogue west of the Mississippi as well as a landmark temple in San Francisco. “We are pleased to participate in this important San Francisco-wide commemoration of 9/11 by helping to create a constructive dialogue about what our flag represents,” said Paula Freedman, temple curator.
To arrange a tour of the exhibition, please call Temple Emanu-El at (415) 751-2535. Appointments are encouraged, but not required.
For more information on the “American Icon” paintings or to inquire about the purchase of originals or prints, call (805) 984-2816 or visit the website at ARTZworks.com.
-30-
