Stars and stripes: This illustration by artist Steve Moors evokes a folk art theme and a naturally patriotic palette. To see more of the artist’s work or to contact him, visit www.stevemoors.com.


E pluribus unum:
Raise your hand if you love the USA! Images with an understated patriotic theme can stand out from the crowd. PictureQuest Image 22336253.

Although red, white, and blue instinctively conjure American patriotism, this color palette is used in many applications. The contrasts between the colors are striking and bold and can lend strength to any design.

We chose to spotlight Steve Moors and his “Washing the Flag” illustration (right) for its understated patriotic palette. “After 9/11, I felt my family [was] threatened in a very direct way,” Moors says. “The perspective of family seemed the right direction. I didn’t want an angry image—I wanted something gentle, yet resolute in the face of adversity.”

There are many origins to Moors’ creative inspiration, “but the source by which I’m being constantly surprised is folk art,” he notes. “For the most part it’s brutally individual and uniquely expressive. Folk artists sidestep association with any genre. They’re a wonderfully liberated landscape of raw talent, uninhibited by convention or expectation. It’s inspiring to see the honest application of creativity.”

When choosing color, Moors uses his instincts: “I trust that whatever transpires colorwise naturally will be what is necessary.” His flag image evokes the folk art touch he finds inspiring, as well as a natural evolution of colors. Using Photoshop with a Wacom tablet, Moors creates the line work in one layer, then plays with color, using many layers to keep each color apart for separate manipulation.

“I believe in personal responsibility rather than the term patriotism,” Moors concludes. “There are many things people can be proud of collectively as a nation. This image is a reaction to the human consequences of aggression, which can speak to citizens of any nation.”