WE ARE AMERICA

A project that celebrates America’s 250 year anniversary and giving homage

to our brave men and woman

What Inspired this project?

I’m creating this legendary flag as a living tribute—not only to honor the men and women of our armed services who have sacrificed so much, but also to carry forward the wisdom of those who have deeply impacted my life. One of those people was Gama, a man I met on a city bus back in 2000. He was on his way to the VA, and I was just beginning to find my way in the world. Gama had lost his eyesight while serving in Vietnam, yet somehow, he seemed to see clearer than most. His presence alone was grounding, but it was his purpose that left a permanent mark on me.

Rather than falling into bitterness or despair, Gama spent his days teaching others who had lost their vision how to navigate life with dignity and strength. He passed along not just practical skills but something far more valuable—a mindset. He taught me that while we may lose certain abilities, we never lose our capacity to serve, to uplift, and to live with meaning. In quiet moments, he shared bits of the knowledge he gave others, and over time, he became an unexpected mentor. We’d have these deep conversations—conversations about life, resilience, and even about artificial intelligence, back when it still sounded like science fiction. He saw the future coming and spoke about how technology might one day help people like him, and how important it was that we never lose the human heart in the process.

Seventeen years later, my own mother lost her eyesight. And in that moment, Gama's words, his lessons, and his example came flooding back. I realized that he had been preparing me long before I ever knew I'd need that knowledge. Life has a way of putting the right people in front of us, often when we least expect it, and I know now that meeting Gama was no accident.

This flag is for him. It's for my mother. It's for every veteran who has given a part of themselves for this country. But beyond that, this flag is a message—to the future, to the next generation, and to all of us still here. That’s why I invited the children of veterans to leave their handprints on this flag. I wanted their hands—our future leaders, our future protectors, our future dreamers—to quite literally become part of this living symbol. Because what better reminder could there be that freedom isn’t just something we inherit, it’s something we must actively care for?

This sacred land we live on, these freedoms we enjoy, the peace we sometimes take for granted—they exist because of those who came before us, those who stood guard, and those who held the line. And it’s now up to us to hold the line for each other. To take care of this land. To take care of each other. To stay united, even when we have our differences. Even when the noise of politics and division tries to pull us apart, we must remember that we belong to something greater than that.

This flag is a reminder that unity doesn’t mean we’ll always agree—but it does mean we show up for each other, with respect, with gratitude, and with the understanding that this country, with all its complexities, is still worth protecting, healing, and loving.

So as this flag waves, may it carry with it the stories of those who sacrificed, the lessons of those who guided us, and the hands of those who will lead us forward. May it remind us to truly see what matters—and to never forget that we are, and always will be, stronger together.

Key Points:

• Artistic Concept: Describe Ariel Basso’s vision of replacing traditional stars with vet’s children’s handprints.

• This Project will be made into a short film documentary and art exhibition.

• Intergenerational Impact: Discuss how the project honors veterans and inspires future generations.

• Unity and Freedom: Reiterate the project’s emphasis on standing together and upholding national values.

• This will be one of the largest American Flag ever created by one single artist 14' w x 12' H

Impact and Benefits

• Community Bonding: Discuss how the project fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

• Educational Aspect: Emphasize the educational value for children, teaching them about patriotism and civic duty.

• Veteran Recognition: Describe how the project honors and acknowledges the sacrifices of veterans.

• Lasting Legacy: Explain the long-term significance of the artwork as a symbol of unity and hope.

• Documentary will be shown in indie film festivals across the U.S

• Art Sales will be Supporting Veteran organizations.