N.C. (Newell Convers) Wyeth (1882-1945),
Buy War Bonds, poster, 40 1/2 x 26 ¾ inches. Brigham Young University Museum of Art, gift of Phillip M. Flammer.
Happy Memorial Day weekend from the BYU Museum of Art! Memorial Day often conjures up thoughts of family barbecues, outdoor picnics, and time with loved ones. The reason for this holiday, initiated in the nineteenth century, is to give families time to honor all men and women who have died while serving in the military. We honor all who made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure freedom and happiness for others. Throughout the United States, this day provides a time to visit cemeteries with flowers, wreathes, and flags, and remember beloved family members. Used during the Second World War, this dynamic poster was designed by artist N. C. Wyeth shortly before his death at the end of the war. An immense figure of Uncle Sam emerges from billowing clouds of smoke; with an undaunted expression, he carries the American flag and leads his troops and planes onward to battle. This poster was one of the first used in WWII to ask the American public to support the war effort by purchasing war bonds.