Kansas museum displays veteran portraits celebrating America’s diversity
A unique art collection featuring portraits of veterans from all 50 states is on display at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence this summer.
The “We the People” exhibit showcases the seven-year project of renowned American watercolor artist Mary Whyte, who traveled to every state to paint portraits of veterans in their everyday lives.
The traveling exhibit aligns with the museum’s original mission, according to William Snyder, museum supervisory curator.
“The Eisenhower’s boyhood home opened after his mother passed away as a museum, and General Eisenhower would only agree to a museum if it was about all World War Two veterans,” Snyder said. “So for us to be able to bring an exhibit here that honors Ike’s legacy and his original wishes for this museum just means so much to us.”