RA Art

Arnold Friberg in his painting "The prayer at Valley Forge" teaches patriotic Americans the importance and sacredness of meaningful prayer. Mr. Friberg gives ethos to his argument by including George Washington in his painting. All Americans respect and admire George Washington because of his outstanding courage and example. He was a man of truth and honor and we look up to him as an example. Not only does Friberg use George Washington as a form of ethos in this painting, but also as an emotional symbol to the American people. When I see George Washington, I cannot help but feel a a great sense of patriotism, freedom, and love for this country. I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude to God for preparing and using great men like George Washington to establish this country. Friberg knows his audience well. As I look at this painting, I also see a symbol of hope for a better tomorrow. The color choice Friberg uses emphasizes that emotion of hope. The breath from the horse tells how cold it is in this painting. the dull blue color on the snow and trees gives a dreary feeling to the painting. Yet, the warm sun light on Washington contrasted with the dull cold snow and trees gives that feeling of hope that things will work out ok. I feel that Friberg's argument is very logical. Even the leader of our people, the man we look up to praises God and seeks greater understanding and help. Why shouldn't we? George Washington trusted in God for help and that is what we as a people should do. I feel that Friberg is successful in persuading Americans the importance of praying to God for guidance and support. His painting is simple, but I feel that it it works very well for the audience Friberg has chosen to address.