Art
Ex-Marine’s Sculpture Honors Bravery and Sacrifice
Retired Marine Corps Major, S. Joseph Winslow Jr., unveils a monumental bronze frieze memorializing the 2nd Battle of Fallujah. His authentic combat experiences bring depth and authenticity to the artwork, serving as a powerful tribute to the Marines’ sacrifices and bravery.
By Beth Snider · February 9, 2024
Operation Phantom Fury 2004 Fallujah, Iraq
Major S. Joseph Winslow Jr., a retired Marine Corps Major and combat artist, has unveiled a monumental bronze frieze that vividly captures the intensity and complexity of the 2nd Battle of Fallujah during Operation Phantom Fury in 2004. The sculpture memorializing the historic battle, serves as a visual reminder of the bravery and camaraderie of America's Marines in combat. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Major S. Joseph Winslow Jr
His perspective as a former Marine Corps Field Historian and Combat Artist, tasked with recording firsthand accounts and gathering relevant artifacts during combat, brings a level of authenticity and depth to his artwork. The frieze, an impressive representation of his experiences in the field, stands as a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made by the Marines during one of the most challenging urban battles in recent history. Joe Winslow/Facebook
The Creation Process
The process begins with sculpting a full size clay model form the drawing. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Clay Rendering
The clay model representation was meticulously crafted over two months using medium hardness polymer clay. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Wax Version of the Mold
In the process of detailing and refining the wax for the final casting, special emphasis is placed on the intricate aspects. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Wax Version Detailed for Casting
This stage is considered crucial, as the quality of detail invested in the casting process significantly influences the final outcome. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Creating an Artistic Journey into Combat Realities
The bronze composition represents a Marine rifle squad in action, capturing pivotal moments from the battle. The artist provides detailed observations that enrich the viewer's understanding of the piece. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Bronze Copy
First concept note: The movement of the team, breaching walls, engaging insurgents, and navigating the challenging terrain of Fallujah are meticulously portrayed. The stairs, a treacherous part of the clearing process, symbolizing the constant threat faced by the Marines. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Bronze Being Detailed
Second Concept Note: The architecture reflects the social complexity of Fallujah, with both affluent and impoverished residents living in close proximity. The contrasting scenes of a humble hovel and a mansion across the street show the diverse nature of the battlefield. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Patina and Color Tint Added
Third Concept Note: The array of weapons, from the M-16 with ACOG sight to the K-Bar and Barretta shotgun, showcases the equipment used by a typical Marine team during the battle. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Amazing Details
Fourth Concept Note: The physical proximity of the Marines, depicted through subtle touches and interactions, displays the cohesion and mutual reliance within the team - a tribute to the essence and training of America's Marines. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Completed Frieze: 20" x 40" x 1" weighing 86 pounds.
Winslow's artistic journey began during his military service as a Field Historian and Combat Artist. Combining his combat experience with a background in fine arts and architectural design, his sketches and drawings served as an invaluable historical record. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Journey as a Combat Artist
"When America looks to understand how a combat Marine's heart guides the actions of his hands, there is no report or statistic that will show her as clearly as combat art does." Maj. S. Joseph Winslow Jr. Joe Winslow/Facebook
Inspiring Others at Combat Art Symposium
The bronze frieze is a work of art and a living record of the sacrifices, bravery, and camaraderie that define the Marine Corps. Winslow's dedication to preserving the history of America's military through art ensures that future generations will have a visual and emotional connection to the stories of those who served. The frieze is currently on display at the USMC Museum in Quantico, Virginia. Marc Poole/Facebook