Give Honor to the Fallen

Firefighters and police officers often give their all, making the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of their duties. I created this art piece (suspended from the 3rd floor in the Atrium Galley) to memorialize the service these first responders provide and the risks they face. The red and blue arms in uniform with clasped hands signifies the collaborative effort of firefighters and police officers as they work together to protect the public from harm, to maintain order, and to uphold the fabric of America.
I included the colors of the American flag in this art piece to signify their service to all Americans. The black and the white stripes symbolize the tightrope walk between life and death often faced by the men and women in public safety. The frayed burned edges and simulated blood stains symbolizes the dangers they face in the performance of their duties. The dove and olive branch embodies peace to the families of the fallen. The blue ribbon conveys loyalty, trust, and truth.
The clasped hands signifies the interdependent relationship between fire and police, as both work together and protect each other as first responders. The shading of each hand -- each digit a different color, each hand rimmed in the color of each department -- symbolizes the men and women of all backgrounds who step forward to take on the uniform of firefighter or police officer. These brave men and women, whether employee or volunteer, are united in a single purpose to serve and protect the American public. They will be remembered when they perish in the line of duty. This art piece is intended to honor their sacrifice.