In the spring of 2011 I was contacted by Norfolk Festevents concerning a special painting that would promote and commemorate the 2012 Virginia OpSail event as well as the Bicentennial of the War of 1812. In June of this year tall ships from many nations will sail into Hampton Roads Harbor and up the Elizabeth River to the waterfront of Norfolk.

Karen Scherberger, CEO of Festevents explained that the Parade of Sail would be lead by the USCGC Eagle followed the remaining tall ships. The fleet would pass by our country’s modern fighting ships at the Norfolk Naval piers. USCGC Eagle is our nation’s training sail vessel for future officers for the US Coast Guard. Susan Constant, also pictured in the scene is a replica of the original flagship of the English Virginia Company that was captained by Christopher Newport on their famed voyage to establish England’s first permanent colony in America at Jamestown, Virginia.

I did a number of small sketches followed by an oil study that was accepted by the client. Karen arranged a meeting for me with Admiral Robert Papp, Commandant of the USCG at his headquarters in Washington, DC. The Admiral was very helpful with his suggestions and he further arranged for me to sail aboard Eagle in September. This was extremely helpful with my understanding the intricacies of the vessel’s rigging and these details were incorporated in my final, major painting of the scene.

Commemorative posters and prints have been published and are available by visiting www.harbor-gallery.com/ and click on my painting or by calling 757-627-2787.

Prices are as follows:
Commemorative Poster 24” x 36” — Signed and Numbered: $50 Unsigned: $35.Limited Edition Commemorative OpSail Fine Art Print 17”x 29” [image size] — Signed and Numbered: $175