Leo Martínez
Jasper Johns' painting titled Flag brings up an interesting question: does painting a flag mean it's a flag? The painting, created in 1954-1955, is considered a pivotal object within the history of modern American art. It depicts the U.S. flag in its form between 1912 and 1959, with 48 stars and 13 stripes. Johns' work reflects on the relationship between a painting and the object it represents, blurring the lines between art and flag. The use of encaustic, an ancient Egyptian technique, further adds to the complexity of the work. While some view Flag as a demonstration of the artist's respect for the national symbol, others interpret it as an artificial proxy, challenging the traditional notions of mid-century painting.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Flag Code | Established on June 22, 1942 |
| Flag Code | Guidelines for proper positioning, illumination, and maintenance |
| Flag Code | Rules for vertical and horizontal flag displays |
| Flag Code | Rules for maintaining integrity and appearance |
| Flag Code | Rules for displaying the flag with respect |
| Flag Code | Not legally binding for civilians |
| Freedom to Display the American Flag Act | Passed in 2005 |
| Freedom to Display the American Flag Act | Protects homeowners' rights to display the flag on their property |
| Freedom to Display the American Flag Act | Prevents HOAs from banning flag displays |
| Jasper Johns' Flag | Created in 1954-1955 |
| Jasper Johns' Flag | Inspired by a dream of the U.S. flag |
| Jasper Johns' Flag | Uses encaustic, oil paint, and newsprint collage |
| Jasper Johns' Flag | Reflects the three colors of the U.S. flag: red, white, and blue |
| Jasper Johns' Flag | Represents the flag's form between 1912 and 1959, with 48 stars |
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What You'll Learn
Jasper Johns' encaustic painting, 'Flag'
Jasper Johns' encaustic painting, "Flag", is a powerful work that invites viewers to reflect on the American flag and its various interpretations. Created between 1954 and 1955, two years after Johns' discharge from the U.S. Army, the painting is housed in the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
"Flag" is a unique depiction of the American flag, reflecting the colours red, white, and blue. It showcases the flag's design between 1912 and 1959, featuring 48 white stars on a blue canton, representing the then 48 states, excluding Alaska and Hawaii. The painting also includes thirteen red and white stripes. Johns' choice to portray this specific historical iteration of the flag adds a layer of intrigue to the work.
The painting is crafted using encaustic, a technique involving hot wax mixed with pigment, applied to the surface while still warm. This method results in a distinctive textured effect, almost sculptural in nature, on the canvas. Encaustic was an unusual medium when Johns began using it in the 1950s, setting his work apart from the abstract expressionist canvases prevalent in New York at the time.
Johns' "Flag" is part of a series that includes other recognisable motifs such as targets and numbers. The artist himself stated that he was inspired to paint the flag after dreaming of it in 1954. He was intrigued by the idea of painting something that the "mind already knows", exploring familiar subjects that people often overlook in their daily lives.
The painting has sparked debates about its interpretation, with some viewing it as a patriotic tribute to America and others considering it a subtle critique of the American government. The ambiguity of its message adds to its allure, reflecting the multifaceted nature of American identity and culture.
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The United States Flag Code guidelines
The United States Flag Code was established on June 22, 1942, outlining guidelines for the proper handling and display of the American flag, including painted representations. While these guidelines are not legally binding for civilians, adhering to them demonstrates respect for the flag. Here are some key guidelines from the code:
Proper Positioning and Display
The code provides guidelines for both vertical and horizontal flag displays. When painting a vertical flag, the union (the blue field with stars) should be positioned at the top left corner. For horizontal flag paintings, the union must be at the upper left corner when viewed from the street or primary viewing angle. These rules apply regardless of the surface being painted, such as a wall or garage door.
Colour Accuracy and Configuration
When painting the American flag, it is important to use the correct colours and star and stripe configuration. The specific shades of red and blue are Old Glory Red and Old Glory Blue, with white completing the trio. Avoid using different shades or adding additional colours to maintain the flag's authenticity and meaning.
Maintenance and Preservation
The Flag Code emphasizes the need to keep the flag in excellent condition. Painted representations require regular maintenance to preserve their appearance and integrity. Depending on the climate and paint quality, repainting may be necessary every few years. When painting an outdoor flag, use high-quality, weather-resistant exterior paints, and consider applying a clear protective coating to shield it from environmental factors.
Respectful Handling
The Flag Code includes guidelines to ensure the flag is treated with respect. It should never be used as a receptacle for holding or delivering items, nor should it touch anything beneath it, such as the ground or water. The flag should not be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery, and it should always be allowed to fall free, not festooned or drawn up in folds.
Prohibition on Alterations
The flag should never have any additions or alterations made to its design. This includes placing or attaching any mark, insignia, letter, word, figure, design, picture, or drawing to the flag. It should also not be used for advertising purposes in any manner, including on merchandise or advertising signs.
These guidelines, outlined in the United States Flag Code, provide a framework for respectfully displaying and handling the American flag, including painted representations, and help uphold the values it symbolizes.
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Respecting the flag
Respecting a flag is an important way of honouring a nation and its people. Each country has its own flag etiquette, and it is essential to know these customs and laws related to flag display. Here are some ways to ensure proper respect is shown to a flag:
Saluting the Flag
When the national anthem or pledge of allegiance is played, it is customary to salute the flag. Civilians should place their hand over their heart, and men should remove any hats they are wearing. Military personnel and veterans may give a military-style salute, standing at attention. This salute should also be offered when passing the flag, or when it is being raised or lowered.
Displaying the Flag
The display of a flag is governed by rules that vary from country to country. In the United States, the Flag Code outlines guidelines for displaying and handling the American flag, including painted representations. These rules include the positioning, illumination, and maintenance of the flag. The code recommends, for example, that the flag be oriented correctly, with the union (the blue field with stars) at the top left corner of a vertical flag, and at the upper left corner of a horizontal flag when viewed from the street. The code also emphasises the importance of keeping the flag in excellent condition, and that it should be properly illuminated.
Folding and Disposing of the Flag
When the flag is taken down, it should be folded in a particular way as a symbol of patriotism. The flag should be folded in half twice so that the stars are showing, then folded into a triangle, starting at the striped end. Finally, the remaining end is tucked into the fold to secure it, resembling a three-cornered hat. When a flag becomes old, worn, or torn, it should be disposed of properly, preferably by burning it in a dignified ceremony.
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The Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005
The United States Flag Code, established on June 22, 1942, outlines guidelines for properly displaying and handling the American flag. These rules also extend to painted representations of the flag. While the Flag Code is not legally binding for civilians, following its recommendations demonstrates respect. According to the Flag Code, any design that incorporates red, white, and blue with stars and stripes is considered a representation of the American flag. This broad definition means even stylized or abstract interpretations of the flag are subject to the same rules as traditional flag displays.
The Flag Code contains several important provisions that apply to painted representations of the flag. These include guidelines on proper positioning, illumination, and maintenance. For example, when painting a vertical flag, the union (the blue field with stars) must be positioned at the top left corner of the flag. For horizontal flag paintings, the union must be at the upper left corner when viewed from the street or primary viewing angle. These rules apply whether the flag is painted on a wall, garage door, or any other surface.
To ensure that a painted flag stands up to the Flag Code, it is important to use high-quality, weather-resistant exterior paints. Consider applying a clear protective coating to shield the paint from UV rays, rain, and other environmental factors. Depending on the climate and paint quality, the flag may need to be repainted every few years to keep it looking its best.
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Painting your own flag
First, consider the design you want to create. If you're painting a representation of an existing flag, such as the American flag, it's important to follow the guidelines for proper display and handling, such as the United States Flag Code. These guidelines include recommendations for colour accuracy, star and stripe configuration, positioning, illumination, and maintenance. On the other hand, if you're creating a personal flag, you have more freedom to choose your own colours, symbols, and overall design.
Once you have an idea of your design, you can start gathering your materials. For painting a flag, you'll typically need paint, a paintbrush, a surface to paint on (such as a canvas, wood, or fabric), and possibly additional tools like stencils, tape, and a spray adhesive. If you're painting a complex design, you may want to create a digital version of your design first, using software like GIMP or Photoshop, to help you plan the layout and spacing.
When you're ready to start painting, it's important to prepare your surface properly. If using a stencil, be sure to secure it in place and cover any areas you don't want to get paint on. If you're painting multiple colours, you'll need to paint one colour at a time, allowing each section to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next. This is especially important when working with thin fabrics that may bleed paint onto other areas.
Finally, if you're painting an outdoor flag or a flag that will be displayed in an area exposed to the elements, be sure to use high-quality, weather-resistant exterior paints. You may also want to consider applying a clear protective coating to help shield the paint from UV rays, rain, and other environmental factors.
Remember, painting your own flag can be a rewarding and creative process. Whether you're expressing your personal style or showing your patriotism, take the time to plan your design, gather the right materials, and follow the proper techniques to ensure your flag turns out just the way you want it.
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Frequently asked questions
Painting a flag can be a way to express one's patriotism, support for a particular cause, or simply as a form of artistic expression.
Yes, depending on the country, there may be specific guidelines and recommendations for painting a flag. For example, the United States Flag Code outlines standards for the proper display and handling of the American flag, including painted representations. These guidelines include the correct positioning, illumination, and maintenance of the flag.
In the United States, the Freedom to Display the American Flag Act of 2005 protects homeowners' rights to display the American flag, including painted representations, on their property. However, it is essential to check local laws and regulations, as homeowners' associations (HOAs) may have rules regarding the size and placement of painted flags.
"Flag" by Jasper Johns is a well-known painting of the American flag, created in 1954-1955. It is considered a pivotal work within the history of modern American art and is held in the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
