DonThornton Dial, Jr. · 2003

The Composition of Assemblage

The artwork titled Don presents a close-up view of an assemblage piece centered on the American flag. The composition utilizes various pieces of fabric to construct the red, white, and blue elements of the flag. These materials appear layered and textured, creating a physical presence that moves beyond a flat representation. In the background, a figure is positioned, appearing to observe the work. The scale of the piece is 180 x 289 cm, providing a large surface for the arrangement of these found materials. The work was created in 2003.

Materiality and Form

The construction of the piece relies on the tactile qualities of its components. The artist uses specific textures to define the national symbol, moving away from traditional paint application toward a method of building with objects. The physical properties of the work include:

• Red, white, and blue fabric segments
• Layered assemblage techniques
• Found materials integrated into the surface
• A large-scale rectangular format

Symbolism and Social Context

The subject matter focuses on the unifying power of a nation’s ideals. By using fabric and assemblage, the work addresses the concept of national identity through the physical medium of the flag. The presence of the observer in the background introduces a human element to the composition, suggesting a relationship between the viewer and the symbol. This approach connects the material reality of the objects to broader themes of social and political commentary.