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Ernst Lurker,
Concept for the White House,
2013
The land of the free,
and the home of the brave.
by Francis Scott Key.
This well known sentence of the National Anthem is a powerful message that the US is conveying to the rest of the world. Translating it into an expression of an artistic medium is no small challenge. However, presenting the columns of the White House portico in bright and cheerful colors seems to be a stunning trailblazer. This uncommon gesture would not only represent a memorable symbol of freedom and courage, it would also convey a positive spirit of optimism and vitality. Wherever vivid colors appear in art, they tend to be an expression of the joy of life. The abundance of color also embodies a pronounced element of play, a distinctive characteristic of all culture (Homo Ludens by Johan Huizinga, 1939). To have these values boldly embraced by the President and the Executive Branch of government would mean nothing less than a major step forward in human culture. The global communication of such a joyous, public event would find numerous emulators, inspire a sense of humor, and contribute to the wellbeing of all of humanity.
Who says that the White House cannot be a work of art? One thing we know with certainty: the colorful columns would clearly increase the real estate value of the government property.
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