I began collecting discarded and found fragments of American flags after a wave of intense patriotism swept the nation following 9/11 in 2001. Flags were everywhere! The shredded and worn flags I discovered created a jarring contrast to the patriotism and pride they were meant to represent. I knew there was an important project using these found flags that I would eventually pursue. The symbolism and visual impact of these abandoned artifacts seemed to ask the question: who and what does the American flag actually represent?

I continue to find flags and fragments of flags wherever I walk or drive. I feel compelled to pick them up. I wash, iron, and handle them with care, tenderness, and reverence. All the flags in this exhibit are presented in their original found condition. They have been hand-stitched onto backgrounds, embellished with embroidery, appliqué, and sculptural elements.

Broken Promises is a meditation on our history, our democracy, and the promises of our constitution.

"Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy." — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.