After leaving office in 2009, George W. Bush did what most former presidents would do – he began painting portraits of veterans.
Okay, so that’s not what every former president has done, but he breathed a sigh of relief and invested himself in a hobby that allowed him to express the memories and feelings he harbored within. That hobby was painting.
He began painting veterans who were injured in war, those he had met and bonded with, mourned with, and prayed with since September 11, 2001.
Bush painted the men and women to honor their service to our country and show his respect for their sacrifice and courage.
His thoughts about the wounded veterans he met in office prompted Bush’s paintings. He pondered their backgrounds, service, injuries, and recovery.
More than anything, the painting helped Bush relax. And, if British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who painted extensively, could do it, so could he. He was determined to try new things and hoped to inspire others.
Bush even hired an art teacher to help him with his technique and to help him discover his “inner Rembrandt.” That’s one tall order for any teacher.
Whether the former commander-in-chief succeeded in finding his “inner Rembrandt” or simply overachieved in expressing his compassion for those who’d served our great nation, the results were emotionally charged and lauded by all who viewed them.
The final result was bound and titled to be shared with the world.
“Portraits of Courage” holds 66 portraits, a collection of poignant stories, and a four-mural painting Bush created to honor military veterans.
Bush’s four mural pieces are a collection of all the men and women he also featured individually. Behind each face is the story of bravery and sacrifice.
For the men and women who see themselves pictured in the “Portraits of Courage” exhibit, it’s a humbling experience. Melissa Stockwell appears in Bush’s book of portraits. She’s dancing with the ex-president, her red, white, and blue artificial legs.
Stockwell was the first female ever to lose a limb in combat. The Paralympian and Purple Heart recipient feels honored to have been able to serve her country, no matter the cost. She lost her leg, but not her passion for life and liberty.
The paintings from Bush’s book, Portraits of Courage, hang on display at the presidential library at the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, TX. All proceeds from the book went towards the George W. Bush Institute, a policy think tank dedicated to assisting veterans.
The portraits, shared memories, and real-live humans they’re based on are mesmerizing. Upon leaving, you’ll definitely get goosebumps and a whole lot of thoughts to digest.
Watch the video of Bush discussing the work.