When approached by the Defense Intelligence Agency to create a public art memorial, I felt that it was important to visually represent the vision and mission of the DIA community. The men and women that work here are committed to providing service for our country and its citizens. They are dedicated to defending our nation and providing its leaders with information and knowledge that ensures its security. With this in mind, a structure was envisioned that symbolized our nation's unity and strength – a strength that the individuals we memorialize represented in their devotion to their country.
For over 200 years, the American flag has symbolized these qualities. It therefore was a natural choice to represent the strength of the DIA community. The shape and functionality of this memorial is representational of a flag unfurled, blowing in the wind. Encapsulated by stainless steel frames are eight laminated glass panels. Seven of these frames are capable of rotating a full 360 degrees – just like our lives they are continually revolving and changing. These seven unique units represent the lives of the seven individuals we honor with this memorial. An eighth frame remains stationary displaying an excerpt from an essay titled During a Time of Trouble by James Henry Leigh Hunt.
The defining characteristic of dichroic glass is its ability to transmit and reflect light, producing a variation of color, opacity and reflective qualities. This medium was chosen to serve as a symbolic reminder of change and reflection. At the base of the structure lies a polished piece of limestone taken from the Pentagon debris. The names of the seven DIA victims are carved into the stone with the title of the memorial "United in Memory - Committed to Freedom." The use of the building material serves as a stark but beautiful tribute to the loss of our family, friends and colleague's.
As a young artist I find it incredibly humbling to have had the opportunity to create this memorial. It is my hope that the families and friends of the victims can visit this memorial to gain strength and reflect on the lives of their loved ones.
For over 200 years, the American flag has symbolized these qualities. It therefore was a natural choice to represent the strength of the DIA community. The shape and functionality of this memorial is representational of a flag unfurled, blowing in the wind. Encapsulated by stainless steel frames are eight laminated glass panels. Seven of these frames are capable of rotating a full 360 degrees – just like our lives they are continually revolving and changing. These seven unique units represent the lives of the seven individuals we honor with this memorial. An eighth frame remains stationary displaying an excerpt from an essay titled During a Time of Trouble by James Henry Leigh Hunt.
The defining characteristic of dichroic glass is its ability to transmit and reflect light, producing a variation of color, opacity and reflective qualities. This medium was chosen to serve as a symbolic reminder of change and reflection. At the base of the structure lies a polished piece of limestone taken from the Pentagon debris. The names of the seven DIA victims are carved into the stone with the title of the memorial "United in Memory - Committed to Freedom." The use of the building material serves as a stark but beautiful tribute to the loss of our family, friends and colleague's.
As a young artist I find it incredibly humbling to have had the opportunity to create this memorial. It is my hope that the families and friends of the victims can visit this memorial to gain strength and reflect on the lives of their loved ones.
Vector art illustration of final elevation design
Laminated Dichroic Glass with Carved and Painted text. The soft, diffused like finish is achieved by sandblasting the surface of the panel.
1 of 7 Carved and glue-chip panels capable of rotating 360 degrees within a stainless steel frame.
Glass panels during the carving process.
Glass panel production complete.
Limestone plaque fabricated from the debris of The Pentagon.
Dedication of the DIA Memorial.
Ronald L. Burgess, JR., Lieutenant General, speaking at the dedication ceremony of the DIA memorial.
Jacob Robison delivers remarks at the DIA dedication ceremony.
Creative Direction: Jacob Robison
Designer: Jacob Robison
Glass Art: Rudi Waros at Classic Glass, Inc.
Steel Fabrication: Gary Lancaster at AK Metal Fabricators
Engineering: Phillip Brady at PSB Design
