The dedication and character of the men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard provide inspiration for many across the nation. Some of the most inspired are Coast Guard artists who belong to the Coast Guard Art Program.
The Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP) uses fine art as an outreach tool for educating diverse audiences about the United States Coast Guard. Through displays at museums, libraries and patriotic events, Coast Guard art tells the story of the service's missions, heroes and history to the public.
This week, the Coast Guard Art Program will hold its inaugural exhibition of the 2014 collection at the Salmagundi Club in New York City. Here are featured three members of the Coast Guard Art Program who have been inspired by the Coast Guard’s missions and people: James Consor, Tyson Snow and Karen Loew.
James Consor
While working in the advertising business, James Consor spent most of his spare time drawing and painting – with an emphasis on maritime subjects. Consor was involved in the Air Force Art Program at the Society of Illustrators when he learned of a similar program for the U.S. Coast Guard.
Tyson Snow
Tyson Snow’s introduction to the Coast Guard Art Program started with a Coast Guard hero – Douglas Munro. While working at a foundry in Arizona, Snow was approached by the foundry’s owner about creating a sculpture of Munro for the Coast Guard.
Karen Loew
Karen Loew first learned about the Coast Guard Art Program after becoming a member of the program’s sponsor, the Salmagundi Club.
After applying for membership, the first friend she made was Tom Picard, co-chair of the Coast Guard Art Program committee. Through their friendship, she learned about the program and eventually, applied for membership.