"Designs of Duty," an exhibit featuring East Central Illinois veterans and their service-related tattoos, was on display at Booth Library from Jan. 22 through May 11, 2018. It then began traveling to libraries throughout the East Central Illinois region for temporary display.
"Designs of Duty" tells the stories of seven military veterans who served our country over a 45-year period throughout Asia and Europe. Veterans featured in the exhibit are Eric Hiltner and Wilson Reynolds of Charleston, Ken Fernandes of Newman, Random Clavin of Nokomis, Adam Griffy of Olney, Shane Wright of Shelbyville and Lyle Gordon of Towanda.
Tattoos are a common symbol among the military, and this exhibit aims to explore the inspiration and meanings behind them, as well as the stories of the veterans themselves. Pride, patriotism and honor are common themes in the artwork chosen by the veterans showcased in "Designs of Duty."
While the exhibit was on display at Booth Library, related exhibits included military flags; "Symbols of Service," featuring University of Illinois student veterans; aircraft nose art from World War II to today; and Vietnam War helmet graffiti.
"Designs of Duty" is free and open to the public.
Following is the exhibit tour schedule:
May 14-June 4, 2018 – Nokomis Public Library
June 4-July 2, 2018 – Charleston Public Library
July 2-Aug. 6, 2018 – Mattoon Public Library
Aug. 6-31, 2018 – Newton Public Library
Aug. 31-Sept. 28, 2018 – Olney Public Library
Sept. 28-Oct. 31, 2018 – Effingham Public Library
Oct. 31-Dec. 3, 2018 – Lake Land College Library
Dec. 3, 2018-Jan. 3, 2019 – Newman Regional Library
Browse the 2018 - Designs of Duty Collections:
Designs of Duty Traveling Exhibit
